Nanotechnologies and nanosciences are a fast-developing field of research, which sit at the point of convergence of several disciplines (physics, chemistry, biology, mechanics, etc.). This practically-oriented overview is designed to provide students and researchers with essential information on both the tools of manufacture and specific features of the nanometric scale, as well as applications within the most active fields (electronics, magnetism, information storage, biology). Specific applications and techniques covered include nanolithography, STM and AFM, nanowires and supramolecules, molecular electronics, optronics, and simulation. Each section of the book devotes considerable space to industrial applications and prospective developments.

With global capacity in excess of 5 million tons annually, phenolic resins are one of the leading thermosetting resins that are used in many diverse industries such as wood adhesives, fiberglass/mineral wool binder, molded materials for autos/electronic/electrical industries, brakes, abrasives, foam, coatings/adhesives, laminates, composites, metal castings/refractories, and rubber industry. These phenolic resin business areas are critical to the national economy and general welfare of emerging and developed nations. Although phenolic resins are barely noticed in these applications, it is difficult to imagine their absence since they are vital and not easily replaced by other polymeric materials due to favorable cost/performance characteristics of phenolic resins.

In this new book these application areas are summarized and updated by global phenolic experts that are engaged daily in these activities. Further new technology and application areas of global technical activity are presented and include nanotechnology, updated phenolic resin chemistry, carbon fiber and long glass fiber reinforced molding materials, new analyses/testing, carbon foam, carbon/carbon brakes for autos, photo resists, new fiber reinforced systems, renewable raw materials, and recycling.

It is anticipated that the new book will feature a global perspective of phenolic resins through the participation of international (North America, Europe and Asia) phenolic experts that was lacking in all previous books related to phenolic resins.

This thesis describes the fabrication of metal-insulator-semiconductor (MIS) structures using very high permittivity dielectrics (based on rare earths) grown by high-pressure sputtering from metallic targets. It demonstrates the possibility of depositing high permittivity materials (GdScO3) by means of high pressure sputtering from metallic targets using in situ plasma oxidation on Si and indium phosphate (InP) substrates. The advantage of this system is the high working pressure, which causes the particles to undergo multiple collisions and become thermalized before reaching the substrate in a pure diffusion process, thus protecting the semiconductor surface from damage. This work presents a unique fabrication using metallic targets and involving a two-step deposition process: a thin metallic film is sputtered in an Ar atmosphere and this film is then plasma oxidized in situ. It also demonstrates the fabrication of GdScO3 on Si with a permittivity value above 30 from metallic Gd and Sc targets. Since co-sputtering was not possible, a nanolaminate of these materials was deposited and annealed. The electrical properties of these devices show that the material is highly interesting from a microelectronic integration standpoint.

The field of nanotechnology for targeted therapy initiated more than decade ago has grown fast and interest is increasing. Given the importance of the field for targeted drug and gene delivery systems, there are a large number of laboratory investigations today researching nanobiomaterials for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Because of the ability of scientists to load nanoparticles with any agent, interest continues to grow and technology in this arena is rapidly evolving. These emerging nanobiomaterials-based medicines can overcome the disadvantages of traditional medicines by target-oriented and site-specific delivery of precise medicines (immunotherapeutic agents, chemotherapeutic agents, diagnostic agents, and so on). Pharmaceutical Nanobiotechnology for Targeted Therapy presents an updated overview of recent advancements in the field of pharmaceutical nanobiotechnology and nano-based drug and gene delivery systems. This comprehensive knowledge will allow researchers to discover innovative nanobiomaterials for targeted therapeutics. The chapters deal with various emerging nanobiomaterials for targeted therapeutic delivery systems and the writing is in a style that is easily disseminated and in a manner that can be readily adopted as sources for new and further studies. This book should be useful for researchers and professionals from academia and industry working in the field of nanotechnology, nanobiotechnology, as well as in the field of pharmaceutical nanotechnology. It should also be useful to those interested in a range of disciplines from material science, chemistry, molecular biology, polymer chemistry, and many more interdisciplinary areas.

This book provides an overview on the latest advances in the synthesis, properties and applications of polymeric eco-composites and eco-nanocomposites reinforced natural fibers (e.g. pulp-fiber, flax, etc.) and nanofillers (e.g. organoclay, nano-SiC, etc.). Potential challenges and future directions of these composites are highlighted and addressed. This book offers numerous graphs and electron micrographs for easy understanding by students, researchers and practicing engineers.

Since 1995, the noncontact atomic force microscope (NC-AFM) has achieved remarkable progress. Based on nanomechanical methods, the NC-AFM detects the weak attractive force between the tip of a cantilever and a sample surface. This method has the following characteristics: it has true atomic resolution; it can measure atomic force interactions, i.e. it can be used in so-called atomic force spectroscopy (AFS); it can also be used to study insulators; and it can measure mechanical responses such as elastic deformation. This is the first book that deals with all of the emerging NC-AFM issues.

This book provides comprehensive coverage of nanocomposite materials obtained by the sol-gel method, from synthesis to applications and including design tools for combining different properties. Sol-gel nanocomposites are of great interest in meeting processing and application requirements for the development of multifunctional materials. These materials are already commercialized for a number of applications from scratch-resistant and anti-adhesive coatings to optical materials with active and passive properties. Biomedical applications, holographic recordings, fuel cells and hydrogen storage, resists and catalysts are among the potential uses. The novel mechanical, optical and electronic properties of nanocomposite materials depend not only on the individual component materials, but also on their morphology and nanoscale interfacial characteristics. Sol-gel is a highly versatile method for obtaining both the matrix and the filler of the nanocomposite and for chemically adjusting the interface to optimize structure and properties. Although nanocomposites are widely discussed in the literature, the focus has been mainly on polymer nanocomposites. This book addresses nanocomposites based on inorganic or hybrid organic-inorganic matrices, with an emphasis on the scientific principles which are the basis for nanocomposite sol-gel synthesis and applications. A didactic approach is followed, with different topics developed from a fundamental point of view together with key examples and case studies. First comprehensive treatment of nanocomposites obtained by sol-gel methods Focuses on nanocomposites with inorganic and hybrid organic-inorganic matrices Describes design tools to optimize structure and properties for various applications Covers synthesis, processing, characterization, and modeling Uses first principles to describe the influence of interfacial characteristics on materials properties Presents case studies for both films and bulk applications Provides examples of products on the market, with descriptions of the scientific principles at the base of their success Includes contributions from recognized leaders in this multidisciplinary area.

Following an introduction to biogenic metal nanoparticles, this book presents how they can be biosynthesized using bacteria, fungi and yeast, as well as their potential applications in biomedicine. It is shown that the synthesis of nanoparticles using microbes is eco-friendly and results in reproducible metal nanoparticles of well-defined sizes, shapes and structures. This biotechnological approach based on the process of biomineralization exploits the effectiveness and flexibility of biological systems. Chapters include practical protocols for microbial synthesis of nanoparticles and microbial screening methods for isolating a specific nanoparticle producer as well as reviews on process optimization, industrial scale production, biomolecule-nanoparticle interactions, magnetosomes, silver nanoparticles and their numerous applications in medicine, and the application of gold nanoparticles in developing sensitive biosensors.

This highlights ongoing research efforts on different aspects of polymer nanocomposites and explores their potentials to exhibit multi-functional properties. In this context, it addresses both fundamental and advanced concepts, while delineating the parameters and mechanisms responsible for these potentials. Aspects considered include embrittlement/toughness; wear/scratch behaviour; thermal stability and flame retardancy; barrier, electrical and thermal conductivity; and optical and magnetic properties. Further, the book was written as a coherent unit rather than a collection of chapters on different topics. As such, the results, analyses and discussions presented herein provide a guide for the development of a new class of multi-functional nanocomposites. Offering an invaluable resource for materials researchers and postgraduate students in the polymer composites field, they will also greatly benefit materials

Micro/Nano-robotics for Biomedical Applications features a system approach and incorporates modern methodologies in autonomous mobile robots for programmable and controllable micro/nano-robots aiming at biomedical applications. The book provides chapters of instructional materials in micro/nanorobotics for biomedical applications. The book features lecture units on micro/nanorobot components and techniques, including sensors, actuator, power supply, and micro/nano-fabrication and assembly. It also contains case studies on using micro/nano-robots in biomedical environments and in biomedicine, as well as a design example to conceptually develop a Vitamin-pill sized robot to enter human s gastrointestinal tract. Laboratory modules to teach robot navigation and cooperation methods suitable to biomedical applications will be also provided based on existing simulation and robot platforms."

The unique electronic band structure of graphene gives rise to remarkable properties when in contact with a superconducting electrode. In this thesis two main aspects of these junctions are analyzed: the induced superconducting proximity effect and the non-local transport properties in multi-terminal devices. For this purpose specific models are developed and studied using Green function techniques, which allow us to take into account the detailed microscopic structure of the graphene-superconductor interface. It is shown that these junctions are characterized by the appearance of bound states at subgap energies which are localized at the interface region. Furthermore it is shown that graphene-supercondutor-graphene junctions can be used to favor the splitting of Cooper pairs for the generation of non-locally entangled electron pairs. Finally, using similar techniques the thesis analyzes the transport properties of carbon nanotube devices coupled with superconducting electrodes and in graphene superlattices.

The series Topics in Current Chemistry Collections presents critical reviews from the journal Topics in Current Chemistry organized in topical volumes. The scope of coverage is all areas of chemical science including the interfaces with related disciplines such as biology, medicine and materials science. The goal of each thematic volume is to give the non-specialist reader, whether in academia or industry, a comprehensive insight into an area where new research is emerging which is of interest to a larger scientific audience. Each review within the volume critically surveys one aspect of that topic and places it within the context of the volume as a whole. The most significant developments of the last 5 to 10 years are presented using selected examples to illustrate the principles discussed. The coverage is not intended to be an exhaustive summary of the field or include large quantities of data, but should rather be conceptual, concentrating on the methodological thinking that will allow the non-specialist reader to understand the information presented. Contributions also offer an outlook on potential future developments in the field.

Wetting and Spreading Dynamics explains how surface forces acting at the three-phase contact line determine equilibrium, hysteresis contact angles, and other equilibrium and kinetics features of liquids when in contact with solids or with other immiscible liquids. It examines the interaction of surface forces, capillary forces, and properties of the transition zone between the bulk liquid and solid substrate. Significantly revised and updated, the Second Edition features new chapters that cover spreading of non-Newtonian liquids over porous substrates, hysteresis of contact angles on smooth homogeneous substrates, equilibrium and hysteresis contact angles on deformable substrates, and kinetics of simultaneous spreading and evaporation. Drawing together theory and experimental data while presenting over 150 figures to illustrate the concepts, Wetting and Spreading Dynamics, Second Edition is a valuable resource written for both newcomers and experienced researchers.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the structural, nanotribological and nanomechanical properties of skin with and without cream treatment as a function of operating environment. The biophysics of skin as the outer layer covering human or animal body is discussed as a complex biological structure. Skin cream is used to improve skin health and create a smooth, soft, and flexible surface with moist perception by altering the surface roughness, friction, adhesion, elastic modulus, and surface charge of the skin surface.

The main objective of this volume is to demonstrate the importance of the fundamental aspects of interfacial phenomena in various industrial applications. The text provides the reader with the knowledge that is essential for the composition of the complex multi-phase systems used in the above mentioned areas of application. It should enable the physical and formulation chemist as well as the chemical engineer in designing the formulation on the basis of a rational approach. It will also enable the formulation scientist to better understanding the factors responsible for producing a stable product with optimum application conditions. The book should also be very useful for teaching the subject of formulation at academic institutions.

This book focuses on the metallic Nano- and Micro-materials (NMMs) fabricated by physical techniques such as atomic diffusion. A new technology for fabricating NMMs by atomic diffusion is presented. Two kinds of atomic diffusion are treated; one is a phenomenon caused by electron flow in high density and called electromigration and the other is stress migration which depends on a gradient of hydrostatic stress in a material.

In three parts, the book describes the theory of atomic diffusion, the evaluation of physical properties and the treatment and applications of metallic NNMS. The new methods such as atomic diffusion are expected are expected to be crucial for the fabrication of NNMs in the future and to partially replace methods based on chemical reactions.

This book shows the promising future and essential issues on the storage of the supercritical gases, including hydrogen, methane and carbon dioxide, by adsorption with controlling the gas-solid interaction by use of designed nanoporous materials. It explains the reason why the storage of these gases with adsorption is difficult from the fundamentals in terms of gas-solid interaction. It consists of 14 chapters which describe fundamentals, application, key nanoporous materials (nanoporous carbon, metal organic frame works, zeolites) and their storage performance for hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide. Thus, this book appeals to a wide readership of the academic and industrial researchers and it can also be used in the classroom for graduate students focusing on clean energy technology, green chemistry, energy conversion and storage, chemical engineering, nanomaterials science and technology, surface and interface science, adsorption science and technology, carbon science and technology, metal organic framework science, zeolite science, nanoporous materials science, nanotechnology, environmental protection, and gas sensors.

This book highlights the applications of nanotechnology in modern medicine. Today we are living in a world of fast-changing behavior and lifestyles. Despite health and wellbeing are often pronounced and enforced, the diseases and illnesses are emerging in different forms, at an alarming rate. Protecting the mankind is becoming ever more challenging. In this backdrop, medicine needs new approaches and technologies to build the defenses. Nanotechnology is successfully confronting the situation. It does so in two avenues, namely, nanomaterials, and, nanodevices. Nanomaterials possess extraordinary properties that are utilized to confront bacteria and viruses, and for targeted drug delivery. Nanodevices can be maneuvered inside the human body to reach extreme locations. This book presents the latest developments in these areas.

Imaging and Manipulating Molecular Orbitals celebrates the 60th anniversary of the first image of a single molecule by E. Muller. This book summarizes the advances in the field from various groups around the world who use a broad range of experimental techniques: scanning probe microscopy (STM and AFM), field emission microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, attosecond tomography and photoemission spectroscopy. The book is aimed at those who are interested in the field of molecular orbital imaging and manipulation. Included in the book are a variety of experimental techniques in combination with theoretical approaches which describe the spatial distribution and energies of the molecular orbitals. The goal is to provide the reader with an up-to-date summary on the latest developments in this field from various points of view.

The book highlights recent developments in the field of spectroscopy by providing the readers with an updated and high-level of overview. The focus of this book is on the introduction to concepts of modern spectroscopic techniques, recent technological innovations in this field, and current examples of applications to molecules and materials relevant for academia and industry. The book will be beneficial to researchers from various branches of science and technology, and is intended to point them to modern techniques, which might be useful for their specific problems. Spectroscopic techniques, that are discussed include, UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy, XPS, Raman spectroscopy, SERS, TERS, CARS, IR absorption spectroscopy, SFG, LIBS, Quantum cascade laser (QCL) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, ellipsometry, cavity-enhanced absorption spectroscopy, such as cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) and evanescent wave-CRDS both in gas and condensed phases, time-resolved spectroscopy etc. Applications introduced in the different chapters demonstrates the usefulness of the spectroscopic techniques for the characterization of fundamental properties of molecules, e.g. in connection with environmental impact, bio-activity, or usefulness for pharmaceutical drugs, and materials important e.g. for nano-science, nuclear chemistry, or bio-applications. The book presents how spectroscopic techniques can help to better understand substances, which have also great impact on questions of social and economic relevance (environment, alternative energy, etc.).

-Polyelectrolyte Stars and Cylindrical Brushes By Y. Xu, F. Plamper, M. Ballauff, and A. H. E. Muller -Various Aspects of the Interfacial Self-Assembly of Nanoparticles By N. Popp, S. Kutuzov, A. Boker -Holographic Gratings and Data Storage in Azobenzene-Containing Block Copolymers and Molecular Glasses By H. Audorff, K. Kreger, R. Walker, D. Haarer, L. Kador, and H.-W. Schmidt -Donor-Acceptor Block Copolymers with Nanoscale Morphology for Photovoltaic Applications By M. Sommer, S. Huettner, and M. Thelakkat -Recent Advances in the Improvement of Polymer Electret Films By D. P. Erhard, D. Lovera, C. von Salis-Soglio, R. Giesa, V. Altstadt, and H.-W. Schmidt

This book presents the latest and complete information about various types of piezosensors. A sensor is a converter of the measured physical size to an electric signal. Piezoelectric transducers and sensors are based on piezoelectric effects. They have proven to be versatile tools for the measurement of various processes. They are used for quality assurance, process control and for research and development in many different industries. In each area of application specific requirements to the parameters of transducers and sensors are developed. The book presents the fundamentals, technical design and details and practical applications. Methods to design piezosensors are described, allowing to create sensors with unique properties. New methods to measure physical sizes and new constructions of sensors including large area of piezosensors are described in this book. This book is written for specialists in transforming hydroacoustics, non-destructive control, measuring technique, sensors development for automatic control and also for graduate students.

This book presents the development of electrospun materials, fundamental principles of electrospinning process, controlling parameters, electrospinning strategies, and electrospun nanofibrous structures with specific properties for applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, textile, water treatment, sensor, and energy fields. This book can broadly be divided into three parts: the first comprises basic principles of electrospinning process, general requirements of electrospun materials and advancement in electrospinning technology, the second part describes the applications of electrospun materials in different fields and future prospects, while the third part describes applications that can be used in advanced manufacturing based on conjoining electrospinning and 3D printing. Electrospinning is the most successful process for producing functional nanofibers and nanofibrous membranes with superior chemical and physical properties. The unique properties of electrospun materials including high surface to volume ratio, flexibility, high mechanical strength, high porosity, and adjustable nanofiber and pore size distribution make them potential candidates in a wide range of applications in biomedical and engineering areas. Electrospinning is becoming more efficient and more specialized in order to produce particular fiber types with tunable diameter and morphology, tunable characteristics, having specific patterns and 3D structures. With a strong focus on fundamental materials science and engineering, this book provides systematic and comprehensive coverage of the recent developments and novel perspectives of electrospun materials. This comprehensive book includes chapters that discuss the latest and emerging applications of nanofiber technology in various fields, specifically in areas such as wearable textile, biomedical applications, energy generation and storage, water treatment and environmental remediation, and sensors such as biomarkers in healthcare and biomedical engineering. Despite all these advancements, there are still challenges to be addressed and overcome for nanofiber technology to move towards maturation.