ISIS Neutron and Muon Source Data Journal

This is a page describing data taken during an experiment at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. Information about the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source can be found at https://www.isis.stfc.ac.uk.


Molecular interaction study of hydroquinone adsorption on functionalized gold nanoparticles by inelastic neutron scattering - MAPS

Abstract: The global demand for cosmetic products, especially skin whitening creams, has risen sharply in recent years. Hydroquinone (HQ), a common depigmenting agent, is widely used but poses serious health risks when overused, such as skin hyperpigmentation and potential carcinogenic effects. Regulatory authorities like the European Economic Community have restricted HQ concentrations in cosmetics to 2% (w/w), prompting the need for accurate detection methods. In this study, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized via a green method using Aquilaria malaccensis L. (AML) leaf extract, which acted as both a reducing and functionalising agent?a novel approach. The synthesized AuNPs were analyzed using FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, confirming functional group presence from AML and interaction with HQ. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) revealed key peaks, indicating HQ adsorption onto AuNPs. To further explore HQ-AuNP interactions at the molecular level, inelastic neutron scattering (INS) is proposed as an advanced and complementary tool. Initial results show shifts in vibrational modes, particularly in OH bands, upon HQ binding, suggesting molecular interaction. Further INS analysis is planned to gain deeper insight. Understanding these interactions is critical for optimizing AuNP functionalisation in HQ detection.

Principal Investigator: Dr Dicky Annas
Experimenter: Dr Muhammad Al Muttaqii
Experimenter: Dr Indri Badria Adilina
Local Contact: Dr Hamish Cavaye
Experimenter: Professor Stewart Parker
Experimenter: Dr Yulizah Hanifah
Experimenter: Mr Mohammad Jihad Madiabu

DOI: 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2520131

ISIS Experiment Number: RB2520131

Part DOI Instrument Public release date Download Link
10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2520131-1 MAPS 04 March 2029 Download

Publisher: STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source

Data format: RAW/Nexus
Select the data format above to find out more about it.

Data Citation

The recommended format for citing this dataset in a research publication is as:
[author], [date], [title], [publisher], [doi]

For Example:
Dr Dicky Annas et al; (2026): Molecular interaction study of hydroquinone adsorption on functionalized gold nanoparticles by inelastic neutron scattering - MAPS, STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, https://doi.org/10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2520131

Data is released under the CC-BY-4.0 license.



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