Nanorods represent a unique subset of Au nanomaterials with shape enhanced properties. Due to their rodlike morphology, these materials possess multiple plasmon bands that allow for their unique use and biological processing. These materials are synthesized using the cationic surfactant CTAB, which coats the surface of the materials in a positively charged bilayer, thus imparting a significant positive charge. Research groups have focused on the use of these materials employing bio-inspired techniques for the self-assembly and subsequent architectures for fabrication of higher-ordered structures. Due to the cationic surfactant, the Au nanorods possess a high surface positive charge. As a result, interactions can occur with charged species in solution, such as those used for biological buffers at physiological pH.