introduction
Whilst there is a lot of interest in nanotechnology currently, gold nanoparticles themselves have been used for some time without a full appreciation of the science behind them. In particular, "Colloidal Gold" is a term that you might have heard of, which describes a mixture of gold nanoparticles suspended in a liquid (often water). In fact, the use of colloidal gold predates modern nanotechnology by some way!
A Consise History of Colloidal Gold
For centuries Colloidal Gold has been used both medicinally and in the production of coloured glass. More recently, scientists have discovered the roles that colloidal gold can have in diagnoses, medicine, electronics and much more. Here, we’ll be taking a look at Colloidal Gold throughout the ages – how is was used, how it has developed and even where it might be going next!
the egyptians
Although Colloidal Gold was not technically discovered until the 1400s, the Egyptians were well aware of the healing properties of gold. They believed that, when ingested, gold stimulated your life force which cure diseases, enliven the body and restore your youth. They even used it in dentistry which makes the current trend for gold fillings and ‘grills’ amongst the rich and famous look a little outdated…
The Romans
Although the most common use of gold was in producing status symbols such as jewellery and coins, the Romans had all sorts of uses for rudimentary substances that functioned similarly to Colloidal Gold. From ointments used to heal skin lesions to the staining of ornamental glass, the substance was very important in Rome.
the middle ages
We may prefer a sugar-coated pill these days but in the middle ages, a gold-coated pill was the medicine de rigueur for ailments (provided you could afford it, of course!). Powdered gold mixed into drinks was also quite popular and thought to cure arthritis.
the renaissance
This is when colloidal gold as we know it in modern times first came to be used. Discovered by Paracelsus (the great-great-great-great-great-granddaddy of pharmacology), the first preparation of a gold colloid solution was thought to cured all sorts of spiritual, mental and physical problems since “Gold receives its influence from the Sun”.
the 19th century
Michael Faraday was the first to prepare a pure sample of colloidal gold which was created using phosphorous. He called his creation ‘Activated Gold’. His experiments into these nanoparticles also kick-started the fields of nanotechnology and nanoscience. It is through these experiments that some of the optical properties of colloidal gold were discovered.
modern day uses
Today, colloidal gold is used in a vast array of vital areas. From diagnostics to medicine, gold colloids are used to suppress certain cancers and detect the presence of other conditions such as HIV/AIDS. Colloidal Gold has even got uses in modern electronics and textiles – it’s everywhere!
the future of gold
The history of Colloidal Gold might be fascinating, but its future of gold nanoparticles that is seriously exciting. Because they can now be easily incorporated into everyday items, the future of gold is looking very space age indeed. It is thought that in the not-too-distant future this substance can be used in implants which perpetually monitor the health of our bodies or perhaps even as part of interactive clothing too!
For the fields of medicine and science, the newly researched magnetic applications of gold nanoparticles is very promising indeed and could lead to the development of particles that can be selectively turned ‘on’ and ‘off’ at will.
For the fields of medicine and science, the newly researched magnetic applications of gold nanoparticles is very promising indeed and could lead to the development of particles that can be selectively turned ‘on’ and ‘off’ at will.
conclusion
Gold Nanoparticles (in the guise of gold colloids) have been used for centuries for a diverse range of purposes. Even today scientists and researchers are discovering new properties and new capabilities which make gold an invaluable material in a broad spectrum of industries.