Every bit of information that circulates the internet across the globe is a pulse of light, that at some point will need to be converted to an electric signal in order to be processed by the electronic circuitry in our data centers, computers, and cell phones. Photodetectors (PD's) perform this conversion with ultra high speed and efficiency, in addition to being ubiquitously present in many other devices ranging from the mundane TV remote controls, to ultra high resolution instrumentation used in Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory (LIGO) that reach the edge of the universe and measure gravitational waves. The second edition of "Photodetectors" fully updates the popular first edition with updated information covering the state-of-the-art in modern photodetectors. The 2nd edition starts with basic metrology of photodetectors and common figures-of-merit to compare various devices. It follows with chapters that discuss single-photon detection with Avalanche Photodiodes; organic photodetectors that can be inkjet printed; and silicon-germanium PDs popular in burgeoning field of Silicon Photonics. Internationally recognized experts contribute chapters on one-dimensional, nanowire, PDs as well as high speed zero-dimensional, quantum dot, versions that increase the spectral span as well as speed and sensitivity of PDs and can be produced on various substrates. Solar-blind PDs that operate in harsh environments such as deep space, or rocket engines, are reviewed and new devices in GaN technology . Novel Plasmonic PDs, as well as devices which employ micro-plasma of confined charge in order to make devices that overcome speed limitation of transfer of electronic charge, are covered in other chapters. Using different, novel technologies, CMOS compatible devices are described in two chapters, and ultra high speed PDs that use low-temperature-grown GaAs (LT-GaAs) to detect fast THz signals are reviewed in another chapter. Photodetectors used in application areas of Silicon-Photonics and Microwave-Photonics are reviewed in final chapters of this book. All chapters are of a review nature, providing a perspective of the field before concentrating on particular advancements. As such, the book should appeal to a wide audience that ranges from those with general interest in the topic, to practitioners, graduate students and experts who are interested in the state-of-the-art in photodetection.

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device applications are common in many areas. Micromirror arrays are used as video projectors; microsensors find their application for measuring acceleration, temperature, and pressure; and they can also be used in the medical field for measuring blood pressure. Microfluidics have also been widely employed in life sciences applications, such as drug development and administration, point-of-care devices, and more. To use these technologies to their fullest extent, further research is needed. Advances in MEMS and Microfluidic Systems explores the emerging research and advances in MEMS devices and microfluidic systems applications. It features in-depth chapters on microfluidic device design and fabrication as well as on the aspects of devices/systems, characterization, and comparative research findings. Covering topics such as biosensors, lab-on-a-chip, and microfluidic technology, this premier reference source is an indispensable resource for engineers, health professionals, students and educators of higher education, librarians, researchers, and academicians.

Nanoemulsions are produced by mixing an oil phase with an aqueous phase under shear pressure. This procedure yields uniform populations of oil droplets ranging in diameter from 200 to 8 nm that are kinetically stable colloidal substances with enhanced properties compared to the conventional emulsion substances. Nanoemulsions have broad potential applications in agriculture, food, health, and biomedical sciences. Nanoemulsion Applications in Agriculture, Food, Health, and Biomedical Sciences focuses on the aspects of nanoemulsion-like synthesis, characterization, and more and examines recent trends in their applications within a variety of relevant fields. Nanoemulsions have broad application in many different fields; without emulsification, process product development would not be possible. Covering topics such as cancer treatment, healthcare applications, and food manufacturing, this book is essential for scientists, doctors, researchers, post-graduate students, medical students, government officials, hospital directors, professors, and academicians.

With recent advancements in electronics, specifically nanoscale devices, new technologies are being implemented to improve the properties of automated systems. However, conventional materials are failing due to limited mobility, high leakage currents, and power dissipation. To mitigate these challenges, alternative resources are required to advance electronics further into the nanoscale domain. Carbon nanotube field-effect transistors are a potential solution yet lack the information and research to be properly utilized. Major Applications of Carbon Nanotube Field-Effect Transistors (CNTFET) is a collection of innovative research on the methods and applications of converting semiconductor devices from micron technology to nanotechnology. The book provides readers with an updated status on existing CNTs, CNTFETs, and their applications and examines practical applications to minimize short channel effects and power dissipation in nanoscale devices and circuits. While highlighting topics including interconnects, digital circuits, and single-wall CNTs, this book is ideally designed for electrical engineers, electronics engineers, students, researchers, academicians, industry professionals, and practitioners working in nanoscience, nanotechnology, applied physics, and electrical and electronics engineering.

Industry wastewater is a major contributor to environmental pollution with chemicals such as dyes, acids, fungicides, and more creating a threat to the environment. Nanocomposites of heterogeneous photocatalysis can be used to cure such problems due to its efficiency and ease of use, as well as the fact that it turns toxic chemicals completely to carbon dioxide and inorganic acids. With toxic chemicals posing a tremendous threat to ecological wellbeing and human health, it is integral that a variety of nanocomposites are studied for their use in the degradation of toxic and hazardous chemicals. Innovative Nanocomposites for the Remediation and Decontamination of Wastewater describes the synthesis of nanomaterials and its application for the protection of the environment. It presents studies on the photodegradation of the various toxic and hazardous chemicals by different nanocomposites, as well as the decontamination of bodies of water through the use of various nanocomposites. Covering topics such as dye degradation, novel biomaterials, and structural modification, this premier reference source is a vital resource for environmental scientists, construction managers, compliance officers, biochemists, biophysicists, conservation scientists, hydrologists, microbiologists, libraries, students and educators of higher education, researchers, and academicians.

Power Plant Instrumentation and Control Handbook, Second Edition, provides a contemporary resource on the practical monitoring of power plant operation, with a focus on efficiency, reliability, accuracy, cost and safety. It includes comprehensive listings of operating values and ranges of parameters for temperature, pressure, flow and levels of both conventional thermal power plant and combined/cogen plants, supercritical plants and once-through boilers. It is updated to include tables, charts and figures from advanced plants in operation or pilot stage. Practicing engineers, freshers, advanced students and researchers will benefit from discussions on advanced instrumentation with specific reference to thermal power generation and operations. New topics in this updated edition include plant safety lifecycles and safety integrity levels, advanced ultra-supercritical plants with advanced firing systems and associated auxiliaries, integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) and integrated gasification fuel cells (IGFC), advanced control systems, and safety lifecycle and safety integrated systems.

Geographic information systems (GIS) provide information that can be useful across many disciplines. One of these disciplines is the travel and hospitality industry. GIS Applications in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry is a vital scholarly publication that explores the applications of GIS to the leisure travel industry, specifically the importance of GIS in trip planning, online bookings, and location-based services. Highlighting coverage on a wide range of topics such as cultural heritage tourism, geospatial collaborative tourism recommender systems, and decision support systems, this book is geared toward business managers, academicians, researchers, graduate-level students, and professionals looking for current research on the impact of GIS on recreational travel.

To understand the catastrophic processes of forest fire danger, different deterministic, probabilistic, and empiric models must be used. Simulating various surface and crown forest fires using predictive information technology could lead to the improvement of existing systems and the examination of the ecological and economic effects of forest fires in other countries. Predicting, Monitoring, and Assessing Forest Fire Dangers and Risks provides innovative insights into forestry management and fire statistics. The content within this publication examines climate change, thermal radiation, and remote sensing. It is designed for fire investigators, forestry technicians, emergency managers, fire and rescue specialists, professionals, researchers, meteorologists, computer engineers, academicians, and students invested in topics centered around providing conjugate information on forest fire danger and risk.

The concept of smart drug delivery vehicles involves designing and preparing a nanostructure (or microstructure) that can be loaded with a cargo, this can be a therapeutic drug, a contrast agent for imaging, or a nucleic acid for gene therapy. The nanocarrier serves to protect the cargo from degradation by enzymes in the body, to enhance the solubility of insoluble drugs, to extend the circulation half-life, and to enhance its penetration and accumulation at the target site. Importantly, smart nanocarriers can be designed to be responsive to a specific stimulus, so that the cargo is only released or activated when desired. In this volume we cover smart nanocarriers that respond to externally applied stimuli that usually involve application of physical energy. This physical energy can be applied from outside the body and can either cause cargo release, or can activate the nanostructure to be cytotoxic, or both. The stimuli covered include light of various wavelengths (ultraviolet, visible or infrared), temperature (increased or decreased), magnetic fields (used to externally manipulate nanostructures and to activate them), ultrasound, and electrical and mechanical forces. Finally we discuss the issue of nanotoxicology and the future scope of the field.

In the last few years, several "bottom-up" and "top-down" synthesis routes have been developed to produce tailored hybrid nanoparticles (HNPs). This book provides a new insight into one of the most promising "bottom-up" techniques, based on a practical magnetron-sputtering inert-gas-condensation method. A modified magnetron-sputtering-based inert-gas-condensation (MS-IGC) system is presented, and its performances under different conditions are evaluated. Designed for graduate students, researchers in physics, materials science, biophysics and related fields, and process engineers, this new resource fills a critical need to understand the fundamentals behind the design and tailoring of the nanoparticles produced by the MS-IGC method. It shows that the morphology, the size and the properties of the nanoparticles can be modulated by tuning the deposition parameters such as the energy, the cooling rate, and the collision and coalescence processes experienced by the nanoparticles during their formation. The mechanisms of formation of different HNPs are suggested, combining the physico-chemical properties of the materials with the experimental conditions. This book illustrates the potential of MS-IGC method to synthesize multifunctional nanoparticles and nanocomposites with accurate control on their morphology and structure. However, for a better understanding of HNPs formation, further improvements in characterization methods of aggregation zone conditions are needed. In addition, the optimization of the yield and harvesting process of HNPs is essential to make this method sufficiently attractive for large-scale production.

Hyperbolic metamaterials were originally introduced to overcome the diffraction limit of optical imaging. Soon thereafter it was realized that hyperbolic metamaterials demonstrate a number of novel phenomena resulting from the broadband singular behavior of their density of photonic states. These novel phenomena and applications include super resolution imaging, new stealth technologies, enhanced quantum-electrodynamic effects, thermal hyperconductivity, superconductivity, and interesting gravitation theory analogs. Here I review typical material systems, which exhibit hyperbolic behavior and outline important new applications of hyperbolic metamaterials, such as imaging experiments with plasmonic hyperbolic metamaterials and novel VCSEL geometries, in which the Bragg mirrors may be engineered in such a way that they exhibit hyperbolic properties in the long wavelength infrared range, so that they may be used to efficiently remove excess heat from the laser cavity. I will also discuss potential applications of self-assembled photonic hypercrystals. This system bypasses 3D nanofabrication issues, which typically limit hyperbolic metamaterial applications. Photonic hypercrystals combine the most interesting features of hyperbolic metamaterials and photonic crystals.

This multimedia eBook establishes a solid foundation in the essential principles of how signals interact with transmission lines, how the physical design of interconnects affects transmission line properties, and how to interpret single-ended and differential time domain reflection (TDR) measurements to extract important figures of merits and avoid common mistakes. This book presents an intuitive understanding of transmission lines. Instructional videos are provided in every chapter that cover important aspects of the interconnect design and characterization process. This video eBook helps establish foundations for designing and characterizing the electrical properties of interconnects to explain in a simplified way how signals propagate and interact with interconnects and how the physical design of transmission structures will impact performance. Never be intimidated by impedance or differential pairs again.

With the emergence of nanoscience and technology in the 21st century, research has shifted its focus on the quantum and optical dynamical properties of matter such as atoms, molecules, and solids which are properly characterized in their dynamic state. Quantum and Optical Dynamics of Matter for Nanotechnology carefully addresses the general key concepts in this field and expands to more complex discussions on the most recent advancements and techniques related to quantum dynamics within the confines of physical chemistry. This book is an essential reference for academics, researchers, professionals, and advanced students interested in a modern discussion of the niche area of nanotechnology.

Photoemission (also known as photoelectron) spectroscopy refers to the process in which an electron is removed from a specimen after the atomic absorption of a photon. The first evidence of this phenomenon dates back to 1887 but it was not until 1905 that Einstein offered an explanation of this effect, which is now referred to as ""the photoelectric effect"". Quantitative Core Level Photoelectron Spectroscopy: A Primer tackles the pragmatic aspects of the photoemission process with the aim of introducing the reader to the concepts and instrumentation that emerge from an experimental approach. The basic elements implemented for the technique are discussed and the geometry of the instrumentation is explained. The book covers each of the features that have been observed in the X-ray photoemission spectra and provides the tools necessary for their understanding and correct identification. Charging effects are covered in the penultimate chapter with the final chapter bringing closure to the basic uses of the X-ray photoemission process, as well as guiding the reader through some of the most popular applications used in current research.

This book provides an introduction to topological matter with a focus on insulating bulk systems. A number of prerequisite concepts and tools are first laid out, including the notion of symmetry transformations, the band theory of semiconductors and aspects of electronic transport. The main part of the book discusses realistic models for both time-reversal-preserving and -violating topological insulators, as well as their characteristic responses to external perturbations. Special emphasis is given to the study of the anomalous electric, thermal, and thermoelectric transport properties, the theory of orbital magnetisation, and the polar Kerr effect. The topological models studied throughout this book become unified and generalised by means of the tenfold topological-classification framework and the respective systematic construction of topological invariants. This approach is further extended to topological superconductors and topological semimetals. This book covers a wide range of topics and aims at the transparent presentation of the technical aspects involved. For this purpose, homework problems are also provided in dedicated Hands-on sections. Given its structure and the required background level of the reader, this book is particularly recommended for graduate students or researchers who are new to the field.

Research on nanotechnology has mainly focused on the aspects of synthesis of nanomaterials that have unique chemical, thermal, and mechanical properties applicable to a wide range of applications. A variety of properties and phenomena have been investigated, and many of the studies have been directed toward understanding the properties and applications of nanomaterials. Nanomaterials have properties that are useful for enhancing surface-to-volume ratio, reactivity, strength, and durability. Due to their enhanced chemical and mechanical properties, the nanomaterials play promising roles in enhancing the desulfurization. Nanocomposites for the Desulfurization of Fuels is an essential reference source that discusses the synthesis, properties, and technological developments of nanomaterials and their applications in petroleum. Featuring research on topics such as hybrid materials, catalytic properties, and environmental concerns, this book is ideally designed for chemical engineers, scientists, researchers, academicians, and students in fields that include chemistry, petroleum, materials science, physics, and engineering.

With the emergence of smart technology and automated systems in today's world, big data is being incorporated into many applications. Trends in data can be detected and objects can be tracked based on the real-time data that is utilized in everyday life. These connected sensor devices and objects will provide a large amount of data that is to be analyzed quickly, as it can accelerate the transformation of smart technology. The accuracy of prediction of artificial intelligence (AI) systems is drastically increasing by using machine learning and other probability and statistical approaches. Big data and geospatial data help to solve complex issues and play a vital role in future applications. Emerging Trends, Techniques, and Applications in Geospatial Data Science provides an overview of the basic concepts of data science, related tools and technologies, and algorithms for managing the relevant challenges in real-time application domains. The book covers a detailed description for readers with practical ideas using AI, the internet of things (IoT), and machine learning to deal with the analysis, modeling, and predictions from big data. Covering topics such as field spectra, high-resolution sensing imagery, and spatiotemporal data engineering, this premier reference source is an excellent resource for data scientists, computer and IT professionals, managers, mathematicians and statisticians, health professionals, technology developers, students and educators of higher education, librarians, researchers, and academicians.

Accelerated Testing and Validation Methods is a cross-disciplinary guide that describes testing and validation tools and techniques throughout the product development process. Alex Porter not only focuses on what information is needed but also on what tools can produce the information in a timely manner. From the information provided, engineers and managers can determine what data is needed from a test and validation program and then how to select the best, most effective methods for obtaining the data.
This book integrates testing and validation methods with a business perspective so readers can understand when, where, and how such methods can be economically justified. Testing and validation is about generating key information at the correct time so that sound business and engineering decisions can be made. Rather than simply describing various testing and validation techniques, the author offers readers guidance on how to select the best tools for a particular need, explains the appropriateness of different techniques to various situations and shows how to deploy them to ensure the desired information is accurately gathered.
* Emphasizes developing a strategy for testing and validation
* Companion website includes example spreadsheets, program source code, case studies, video clips and much more
* Teaches how to design a testing and validation program that deliver information in a timely and cost-effective manner

With the advancement of new technologies, existing wastewater treatment units need to be reexamined to make them more efficient and to release the load currently placed on them. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop and adopt the latest design methodology to determine and remove harmful impurities from water sources. Advanced Design of Wastewater Treatment Plants: Emerging Research and Opportunities is a critical scholarly resource that explores the design of various units of wastewater treatment plants and treatment technologies that can produce reusable quality water from wastewater. The book covers topics that include the basic philosophy of wastewater treatment, designing principles of various wastewater treatment units, conventional treatment systems, and advanced treatment processes. It is an integral reference source for engineers, environmentalists, waste authorities, solid waste management companies, landfill operators, legislators, researchers, and academicians.

The concept of smart drug delivery vehicles involves designing and preparing a nanostructure (or microstructure) that can be loaded with a cargo. This can be a therapeutic drug, a contrast agent for imaging, or a nucleic acid for gene therapy. The nanocarrier serves to protect the cargo from degradation by enzymes in the body, to enhance the solubility of insoluble drugs, to extend the circulation half-life, and to enhance its penetration and accumulation at the target site. Importantly, smart nanocarriers can be designed to be responsive to a specific stimulus, so that the cargo is only released or activated when desired. In this volume we cover smart nanocarriers that respond to internal stimuli that are intrinsic to the target site. These stimuli are specific to the cell type, tissue or organ type, or to the disease state (cancer, infection, inflammation etc). pH-responsive nanostructures can be used for cargo release in acidic endosomal compartments, in the lower pH of tumors, and for specific oral delivery either to the stomach or intestine. Nanocarriers can be designed to be substrates of a wide-range of enzymes that are over-expressed at disease sites. Oxidation and reduction reactions can be taken advantage of in smart nanocarriers by judicious molecular design. Likewise, nanocarriers can be designed to respond to a range of specific biomolecules that may occur at the target site. In this volume we also cover dual and multi-responsive systems that combine stimuli that could be either internal or external.