Semarang (May 2025) — One of the lecturers from the Physics Study Program, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Diponegoro University, Dr. Ali Khumaeni, M.Si., was recently featured by the national media Kompas.com for his outstanding contribution in developing gold nanoparticles (nano-gold) for cosmetic and medical applications.
Nano-gold, which measures around 1 nanometer (10⁻⁹ meters), is currently drawing the attention of researchers due to its ability to penetrate cell walls and be effectively absorbed by the skin. Studies have shown that nano-gold possesses antibacterial, anti-aging, and skin regeneration-stimulating properties, making it a promising active ingredient in beauty products.
A research team from the Laser and Advanced Nanotechnology Laboratory at FSM UNDIP, led by Dr. Ali Khumaeni, has successfully developed pure nano-gold colloids using the pulsed laser ablation method, resulting in a product with high purity and excellent stability.
Collaboration with the Cosmetics Industry
Following this research, the UNDIP team established a strategic partnership with the cosmetic company Salina Herbal to apply nano-gold in skincare products. This collaboration involves toxicity testing, content analysis, and in-vivo studies, leading to the formulation of a serum-based product that combines herbal ingredients with gold nanoparticles. The jointly developed product was launched in the market at the end of 2023 and received positive responses from consumers. Nano-gold has been proven to effectively delay the aging process of the skin and significantly improve facial appearance.
Potential in Medical Diagnostics
Beyond cosmetics, the research also reveals the potential of nano-gold as a contrast agent in medical imaging, particularly for CT scans. Compared to the commonly used iodine, nano-gold offers fewer side effects, longer circulation time, and sharper image contrast, making it a superior alternative for disease diagnosis.
Various characterization tests have been conducted, including Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDX), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), to confirm the size, morphology, and chemical stability of the nano-gold particles. Additionally, in-vivo tests on animal models have shown a high safety level for medical applications.
The Physics Study Program at UNDIP proudly recognizes this achievement as tangible evidence of physics contributing to real-world solutions. Moving forward, this research is expected to pave the way for greater integration of materials physics and nanotechnology in campus-based innovations for health and beauty products.
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