Abstract: A gold nanostructure, comprising a substrate, a dielectric material, one or more of gold nanoparticles is provided together with related devices and methods.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for detecting molecules are disclosed. One such embodiment is an apparatus for detecting molecules. The apparatus includes a substrate having a surface; and an array of features formed over the surface in a grating pattern. Each of the features includes a top surface. The apparatus also includes a plurality of receptors coupled to the top surfaces of the features. Each of the receptors is configured to bind to a target molecule. A sample is provided over the substrate while a light is illuminated onto the apparatus. A light scattered by the apparatus is detected by a spectrometer. The presence and/or concentration of target molecules can be determined, based at least partly on a shift in the spectral peak of the light.

Abstract: Systems and methods of forming photocatalytic nanocapsules and photocatalytic fibers are disclosed. The methods can include encapsulating one or more photocatalytic nanoparticles in a shell including at least one nanopore. The methods can further include forming photocatalytic fibers from a solution having one or more photocatalytic particles in a polycarbosilane melt.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting a target molecule in a sample are disclosed. The method optionally includes, but is not limited to, contacting the sample with a substrate having a metallic surface and receptors configured to bind to a target molecule, optionally in the presence of one or more metallic nanoparticles also including receptors configured to bind to a target molecule. The method optionally further includes dispersing a dye over the substrate; and applying a magnetic field to the substrate.

Abstract: Methods of making a porous membrane and the applications of the porous membrane are disclosed. One such method includes providing a substrate; and forming a first layer over the substrate. The first layer is formed of a metallic material. The method also includes providing a second layer of oxide particles over the first layer; and pressing the second layer against the first layer such that at least portion of the first layer is inserted into gaps between the oxide particles. The resulting membrane can have various applications, including, but not limited to, a catalyst, in a chemical reaction, a component in an electrical or electronic device, or a filter component.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein relate to labeling reagents comprising a plurality of nanoplates attached to dye molecules. The nanoplates may be configured into stacks and/or at least partially surrounded by a surrounding layer. The reagent may then be used to label a target (e.g., structure or environment).