Au@Cu7S4 yolk–shell nanoparticles as a 980 nm laser-driven photothermal agent with a heat conversion efficiency of 63%

We report the preparation of Au@Cu7S4 yolk-shell nanoparticles (NPs) via an inward replacement strategy based on the Kirkendall Effect. Due to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect enhanced absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) region and the unique yolk-shell structure, the Au@Cu7S4 NPs exhibit excellent photothermal performance with a heat conversion efficiency up to 63% under 980 nm laser irradiation.