The formation and shape transformation mechanism of a triangular Au nanoplate revealed by liquid-cell TEM

We report two different formation mechanisms of a triangular Au nanoplate through the transformation of a truncated octahedron and the direct formation of a triangular seed using liquid-cell TEM. This work stresses the great significance of thermodynamics and kinetics in the formation and later shape transformation of a triangular nanoplate. Direct liquid-cell TEM investigations highlight the significance of thermodynamics and kinetics during the formation and growth of a Au triangular nanoplate.