This book supplies a systematic description of the preparation, characterization, and manipulation of cluster beams for the synthesis of nanocrystalline materials. It addresses all issues relevant to the realization of nanophase structures, providing an excellent introduction for scientists working in different fields. Particular emphasis is placed on using the technique for nanostructured materials and on explaining the role of cluster beams within the context of other experimental techniques in surface-science.

Clusters & Nanostructured Materials

Clusters and nanoscale materials give rise to properties and behaviour that are governed by size restrictions, and hence display features directly attributable to quantum confinement. Thus they represent ideal media for observing and studying quantum phenomena. This book presents and evaluates some of the latest developments in this area of basic research. Each of the chapters focuses on selected aspects of the field, and the authors endeavour to display the breadth of the subject by presenting some of the important recent advances that have been made through the use of new experimental techniques and theoretical approaches.

Cluster Beam Deposition of Functional Nanomaterials and Devices, Volume 15, provides up-to-date information on the CBD of novel nanomaterials and devices. The book offers an overview of gas phase synthesis in a range of nanoparticles, along with discussions on the development of several devices and applications. Applications include, but are not limited to catalysis, smart nanocomposites, nanoprobes, electronic devices, gas sensors and biosensors. This is an important reference source for materials scientists and engineers who want to learn more about this sustainable, innovative manufacturing technology.

This book deals with the evolution of the properties of clusters, nanostructures and cluster-based materials, with emphasis on the role of the interface. These materials are characterized by reduced size, dimension and symmetry, and possess many novel properties that are not commonly seen in their bulk phases. The topics include synthesis, nucleation, growth, characterization, atomic and electronic structure, dynamics, ultra-fast spectroscopy, stability; electrical, magnetic, optical, thermodynamic and catalytic properties of clusters (free and supported); cluster materials (self-assembled, ligated and embedded); nanostructures (quantum dots, wells and corrals; nanotubes and wires; colloidal and biological materials) and nano-technology (electronic, magnetic and optical devices). In addition to presenting the current status of the field, the book discusses outstanding problems and future directions.

It is now some 15 years since atomic clusters were first produced and investigated in laboratories. Since then, knowledge concerning clusters has enjoyed rapid and sustained growth, and cluster research has become a new branch of science.

This book narrows the field into the study of synthesis, characterization, and properties relevant to applications that require bulk, and mainly inorganic materials.

Metal Nanoclusters in Catalysis and Materials Science: The Issue of Size Control deals with the synthesis of metal nanoclusters along all known methodologies. Physical and chemical properties of metal nanoclusters relevant to their applications in chemical processing and materials science are covered thoroughly. Special attention is given to the role of metal nanoclusters size and shape in catalytic processes and catalytic applications relevant to industrial chemical processing.An excellent text for expanding the knowledge on the chemistry and physics of metal nanoclusters. Divided in two parts; Part I deals with general aspects of the matter and Part II has to be considered a useful handbook dealing with the production of metal nanoclusters, especially from their size-control point of view.* Divided into two parts for ease of reference: general and operational * Separation of synthetic aspects, physical properties and applications* Specific attention is given to the task of metal nanoclusters size-control

The first overview of this topic begins with some historical aspects and a survey of the principles of the gas aggregation method. The second part covers modifications of this method resulting in different specialized techniques, while the third discusses the post-growth treatment that can be applied to the nanoparticles. The whole is rounded off by a review of future perspectives and the challenges facing the scientific and industrial communities. An excellent resource for anyone working with the synthesis of nanoparticles, both in academia and industry.