Interrogating the Effects of Neutron Activation on Noble Metal Nanoparticles

Gold nanoparticles are widely explored for applications in energy and medicine. One potential application of gold nanoparticles is the use of Au-198 nanoparticles as effective agents in prostate cancer therapy. One challenge to the synthesis of such nanoparticles is the high radioactivity and short half-life of beta-emitting Au-198 as a radiotherapeutic isotope. One solution towards generating Au-198-containing nanoparticles would be to use in-situ neutron activation of Au-197 nanoparticles. This would reduce the need to handle active material and open up options for the wide library of Au nanoparticle morphologies and ligand chemistries that have been developed. Unfortunately, to date, there is not a comprehensive understanding of how Au nanoparticles would behave in the high temperature high neutron-flux environment of a nuclear reactor. In our studies, we are looking at Au nanoparticle structure pre- and post-irradiation within a nuclear reactor. We are using both morphology and local-structure techniques to evaluate the change in chemistry that occurs upon irradiation. In particular, SAXS and TEM will be used to analyze nanoparticle size and shape changes and XAFS and gamma spectroscopy will be used to characterize composition and local structure changes upon irradiation and beta decay of Au-198 into Hg-198.<br/>As an LGBTQ-identifying researcher, I am deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment within the STEM research community. It is crucial to acknowledge that embracing a broad spectrum of identities not only enriches the fabric of our scientific endeavors but also serves as a cornerstone for dismantling the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ scholars and other marginalized groups within this field. In the past, my identity has often left me feeling alienated and unwelcome in academic spaces. In primary and high school, I had to hide who I am and who I like. The schools were filled with bigotry towards the LGBTQ+ community, which left me not knowing if I was "normal" in comparison to others. This along with my parents being unsupportive of who I am made it hard for me to be excited about academia and STEM even though it's a passion of mine. In college, I have had to actively search for spaces that are explicitly LGBTQ+ friendly, which has allowed me to discover more about myself due to being able to be the true me in these situations. Luckily, in the Moreau group, I have found a scholarly space that is exceedingly accepting and inclusive of all identities. Inclusivity is more than a mere act of acceptance; it is the active cultivation of an environment where everyone can engage in their scholarly pursuits without fear of prejudice or discrimination. When the research community honors and respects the identities and experiences of all its members, it not only amplifies creativity and innovation but also empowers individuals to bring their authentic selves to their work. This authenticity, in turn, drives excellence and propels scientific progress.