Synthesis of large bumpy silver nanostructures with controlled sizes and shapes for catalytic applications

We have synthesized disc-like large silver nanomaterials that have nanostructured bumps on the surface using smaller nanoplate seeds. The size and shape of the bumpy nanostructures are rationally controlled by changing the concentrations of nanoplate seeds, silver ion, reductant, and citrate ion. Importantly, the synthetic mechanism of these bumpy nanostructures is remarkably similar to that of the conventional seed-mediated growth based on tiny seeds. We have further investigated the catalytic properties of the bumpy nanostructures for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol, which is associated with a concomitant color change from yellow to colorless.