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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Metal particles are generated via the spontaneous reduction of Ag+ and AuCl4− ions by solvent molecules that takes place in air-saturated alcoholic solutions containing hydroxide ions. Changes in the plasmon band of the Ag particles are observed when the metal particles are in contact with Ag20 particles. The optical changes are explained in terms of surface effects of the metal particles. Larger shifts of the Au plasmon band and light scattering were observed at the initial stages of the particle formation process. These effects are explained in terms of formation of networks consisting of small metal particles. It is proposed that generation of small Au particles occurs mainly on silica surfaces, and that particle-networks are formed when small particles desorb from the surfaces.