This thesis develops novel numerical techniques for simulating quantum transport in the time domain and applies them to pertinent physical systems such as flying qubits in electronic interferometers and superconductor/semiconductor junctions hosting Majorana bound states (the key ingredient for topological quantum computing). In addition to exploring the rich new physics brought about by time dependence, the thesis also develops software that can be used to simulate nanoelectronic systems with arbitrary geometry and time dependence, offering a veritable toolbox for exploring this rapidly growing domain.

This book develops a methodology for the real-time coupled quantum dynamics of electrons and phonons in nanostructures, both isolated structures and those open to an environment. It then applies this technique to both fundamental and practical problems that are relevant, in particular, to nanodevice physics, laser-matter interaction, and radiation damage in living tissue. The interaction between electrons and atomic vibrations (phonons) is an example of how a process at the heart of quantum dynamics can impact our everyday lives. This is e.g. how electrical current generates heat, making your toaster work. It is also a key process behind many crucial problems down to the atomic and molecular scale, such as the functionality of nanoscale electronic devices, the relaxation of photo-excited systems, the energetics of systems under irradiation, and thermoelectric effects. Electron-phonon interactions represent a difficult many-body problem. Fairly standard techniques are available for tackling cases in which one of the two subsystems can be treated as a steady-state bath for the other, but determining the simultaneous coupled dynamics of the two poses a real challenge. This book tackles precisely this problem.

This book provides an overview of polyolefine production, including several recent breakthrough innovations in the fields of catalysis, process technology, and materials design. The industrial development of polymers is an extraordinary example of multidisciplinary cooperation, involving experts from different fields. An understanding of structure-property and processing relationships leads to the design of materials with innovative performance profiles. A comprehensive description of the connection between innovative material performance and multimodal polymer design, which incorporates both flexibility and constraints of multimodal processes and catalyst needs, is provided. This book provides a summary of the polymerization process, from the atomistic level to the macroscale, process components, including catalysts, and their influence on final polymer performance. This reference merges academic research and industrial knowledge to fill the gaps between academic research and industrial processes. * Connects innovative material performance to the flexibility of multimodal polymer design processes; * Provides a comprehensive description of the polymerization process from the atomic level to the macroscale; * Presents a polyhedric view of multimodal polymer production, including structure, property, and processing relationships, and the development of new materials.

This book provides a wide-range exploration on the ongoing research and developmental events in environmental nanotechnology. Emerging nanomaterials and its technology have been known to offer unique advantages and are continually showing promising potential attracting continuous global attention. This work thus discusses experimental studies of various nanomaterials along with their design and applications and with specific attention to chemical reactions and their challenges for catalytic systems. It will make a noteworthy appeal to scientists and researchers working in the field of nanotechnology for environmental sciences.

Theory and Modeling of Cylindrical Nanostructures for High-Resolution Coverage Spectroscopy presents a new method for the evaluation of the coverage distribution of randomly deposited nanoparticles, such as single-walled carbon nanotubes and Ag nanowires over the substrate (oxides, SiO2, Si3N4, glass etc.), through height measurements performed by scanning probe microscopy techniques, like Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The deposition of nanoparticles and how they aggregate in multiple layers over the substrate is one of the most important aspects of solution processed materials determining device performances. The coverage spectroscopy method presented in the book is strongly application oriented and has several implementations supporting advanced surface analysis through many scanning probe microscopy techniques. Therefore this book will be of great value to both materials scientists and physicists who conduct research in this area.

This book provides a wealth of practical guidance on how to design parts to gain the maximum benefit from what additive manufacturing (AM) can offer. It begins by describing the main AM technologies and their respective advantages and disadvantages. It then examines strategic considerations in the context of designing for additive manufacturing (DfAM), such as designing to avoid anisotropy, designing to minimize print time, and post-processing, before discussing the economics of AM. The following chapters dive deeper into computational tools for design analysis and the optimization of AM parts, part consolidation, and tooling applications. They are followed by an in-depth chapter on designing for polymer AM and applicable design guidelines, and a chapter on designing for metal AM and its corresponding design guidelines. These chapters also address health and safety, certification and quality aspects. A dedicated chapter covers the multiple post-processing methods for AM, offering the reader practical guidance on how to get their parts from the AM machine into a shape that is ready to use. The book's final chapter outlines future applications of AM. The main benefit of the book is its highly practical approach: it provides directly applicable, "hands-on" information and insights to help readers adopt AM in their industry

Multifunctional Systems for Combined Delivery, Biosensing, and Diagnostics explores how multifunctional nanocarriers are being used in combined delivery and diagnostics in contemporary medicine. Particular attention is given to efforts to i) reduce the side effects of therapeutic agents, ii) increase the pharmacological effect, and iii) improve aqueous solubility and chemical stability of different therapeutic agents. The chapters focus on applications of nanostructured materials and nanocarriers, highlighting how these can be used effectively in both diagnosis and delivery. This applied focus makes the book an important reference source for those wanting to learn more about how specific nanomaterials and nanotechnology systems can help to solve drug delivery and diagnostics problems. This book is a valuable resource for materials scientists, bioengineers, and medical researchers who are looking for an applications-oriented guide on how nanotechnology and nanomaterials can be used effectively throughout the medical treatment process, from diagnosis to treatment.

In Advanced ULSI interconnects - fundamentals and applications we bring a comprehensive description of copper-based interconnect technology for ultra-lar- scale integration (ULSI) technology for integrated circuit (IC) application. In- grated circuit technology is the base for all modern electronics systems. You can ?nd electronics systems today everywhere: from toys and home appliances to a- planes and space shuttles. Electronics systems form the hardware that together with software are the bases of the modern information society. The rapid growth and vast exploitation of modern electronics system create a strong demand for new and improved electronic circuits as demonstrated by the amazing progress in the ?eld of ULSI technology. This progress is well described by the famous "Moore's law" which states, in its most general form, that all the metrics that describe integrated circuit performance (e. g. , speed, number of devices, chip area) improve expon- tially as a function of time. For example, the number of components per chip d- bles every 18 months and the critical dimension on a chip has shrunk by 50% every 2 years on average in the last 30 years. This rapid growth in integrated circuits te- nology results in highly complex integrated circuits with an increasing number of interconnects on chips and between the chip and its package. The complexity of the interconnect network on chips involves an increasing number of metal lines per interconnect level, more interconnect levels, and at the same time a reduction in the interconnect line critical dimensions.

Research on deformable and wearable electronics has promoted an increasing demand for next-generation power sources with high energy/power density that are low cost, lightweight, thin and flexible. One key challenge in flexible electrochemical energy storage devices is the development of reliable electrodes using open-framework materials with robust structures and high performance. Based on an exploration of 3D porous graphene as a flexible substrate, this book constructs free-standing, binder-free, 3D array electrodes for use in batteries, and demonstrates the reasons for the research transformation from Li to Na batteries. It incorporates the first principles of computational investigation and in situ XRD, Raman observations to systematically reveal the working mechanism of the electrodes and structure evolution during ion insertion/extraction. These encouraging results and proposed mechanisms may accelerate further development of high rate batteries using smart nanoengineering of the electrode materials, which make "Na ion battery could be better than Li ion battery" possible.

This thesis focuses on the design and synthesis of novel one-dimensional colloidal chalcogenide hetero-nanostructures for enhancing solar energy conversion applications. Semiconducting nanomaterials are particular attractive for energy conversion due to the quantum confinement effects dictating their unique optical and electronic properties. Steering the photo-induced charge-flow based on unique bandgap alignment in semiconductor heterojunctions is critical for photo-electric/chemical conversion. The author presents the controllable preparation strategies to synthesize 1D chalcogenide hetero-nanostructures with various fine structures, further been used as excellent template materials for preparing other novel and complex hybrid architectures through a series of chemical transformations. The heterogeneous growth mechanisms of novel hetero-nanostructures is studied for developing a facile and general method to prepare more novel heterostructures. The band gap structure simulations, detailed charge carrier behaviour and unique solar energy conversion properties of the prepared hybrid nanostructures are deeply investigated. This work would open a new door to rationally designing hybrid systems for photo-induced applications.

Nanostructures for Drug Delivery extensively covers the various nanostructured products that have been tested as carriers in target drug delivery systems. In addition, the book analyses the advantages of, and issues related to, using nanostructured materials in drug delivery systems, also detailing various nanocarrier preparation techniques. As delivering the drug to the target site is a major problem in providing effective treatment for many diseases, this book covers the latest advancements in numerous nanotechnological products that are being used in disease detection, controlled drug delivery, as biosensors, and in tissue engineering that have been developed for more efficient patient healthcare. Due to the versatility of nanostructured materials, it is now possible to deliver a drug at its target site in a more accurate and efficient way. This volume is an up-to-date, state-of-the-art work that highlights the principal mechanistic aspects related to the delivery of active nanoscale therapeutic agents (natural or synthetic) and their release profile in different environmental media. It highlights nanoscale encapsulation strategies and discusses both organic and inorganic nanomaterials as carriers and delivery platforms.

An authoritative, in-depth exploration of the environmental consequences of nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is revolutionizing the chemical, telecom, biotech, pharmaceutical, health care, aerospace, and computer industries, among others, and many exciting new nanotech applications are envisioned for the near future. While the rapid pace of innovation has been truly inspiring, much remains to be learned about the potential environmental and health risks posed by this nascent technology and its byproducts. So important is this issue that the ultimate success or failure of nanotechnology may well depend on how effectively science and industry address these concerns in the years ahead.
Written by two highly accomplished environmental professionals, Nanotechnology: Environmental Implications and Solutions brings scientists, engineers, and policymakers up to speed on the current state of knowledge in this vitally important area. Professor Theodore and Dr. Kunz provide a concise review of nano-fundamentals and explore background issues surrounding nanotechnology and its environmental impact. They then follow up with in-depth discussions of:
* The control, monitoring, and reduction of nanotech byproducts and their impact on the air, water, and land
* Health risks associated with nanotechnology, and methods to assess and control them
* Nanotech hazard risk assessment-including emergency response planning and personnel training
* Multimedia approaches that are available for the analysis of the impact of nanotechnology in the chemical, manufacturing, and waste disposal industries
* The future of nanotechnology and the "Industrial Revolution II"
* The legal implications of nanotechnology
* Societal and ethical implications of nanotechnology-based materials and processing method
Assuming only a basic knowledge of physics, chemistry, and mathematics on behalf of its readers, Nanotechnology: Environmental Implications and Solutions makes fascinating and useful reading for engineers, scientists, administrators, environmental regulatory officials, and public policy makers, as well as students in a range of science and engineering disciplines.

This book was developed with the goal of providing an easily understood text for those users of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) who have little or no background in the area. The SEM is routinely used to study the surface structure and chemistry of a wide range of biological and synthetic materials at the micrometer to nanometer scale. Ease-of-use, typically facile sample preparation, and straightforward image interpretation, combined with high resolution, high depth of field, and the ability to undertake microchemical and crystallographic analysis, has made scanning electron microscopy one of the most powerful and versatile techniques for characterization today. Indeed, the SEM is a vital tool for the characterization of nanostructured materials and the development of nanotechnology. However, its wide use by professionals with diverse technical backgrounds-including life science, materials science, engineering, forensics, mineralogy, etc., and in various sectors of government, industry, and academia-emphasizes the need for an introductory text providing the basics of effective SEM imaging.A Beginners' Guide to Scanning Electron Microscopy explains instrumentation, operation, image interpretation and sample preparation in a wide ranging yet succinct and practical text, treating the essential theory of specimen-beam interaction and image formation in a manner that can be effortlessly comprehended by the novice SEM user. This book provides a concise and accessible introduction to the essentials of SEM includes a large number of illustrations specifically chosen to aid readers' understanding of key concepts highlights recent advances in instrumentation, imaging and sample preparation techniques offers examples drawn from a variety of applications that appeal to professionals from diverse backgrounds.

Nano- and Microscale Drug Delivery Systems: Design and Fabrication presents the developments that have taken place in recent years in the field of micro- and nanoscale drug delivery systems. Particular attention is assigned to the fabrication and design of drug delivery systems in order to i) reduce the side effects of therapeutic agents, ii) increase their pharmacological effect, and iii) improve aqueous solubility and chemical stability of different therapeutic agents. This book is designed to offer a cogent, concise overview of current scholarship in this important area of research through its focus on the characterization and fabrication of a variety of nanomaterials for drug delivery applications. It is an invaluable reference source for both biomaterials scientists and biomedical engineers who want to learn more about how nanomaterials are engineered and used in the design of drug delivery nanosystems.

This book addresses theoretical and experimental methods for exploring microstructured metamaterials, with a special focus on wave dynamics, mechanics, and related physical properties. The authors use various mathematical and physical approaches to examine the mechanical properties inherent to particular types of metamaterials. These include: * Boundary value problems in reduced strain gradient elasticity for composite fiber-reinforced metamaterials * Self-organization of molecules in ferroelectric thin films * Combined models for surface layers of nanostructures * Computer simulation at the micro- and nanoscale * Surface effects with anisotropic properties and imperfect temperature contacts * Inhomogeneous anisotropic metamaterials with uncoupled and coupled surfaces or interfaces * Special interface finite elements and other numerical and analytical methods for composite structures

The investigation of the origin and formation of microstructures and the effect that microstructure has on the properties of materials are important issues in materials science and technology. Geometrical analysis is often the key to understanding the formation of microstructures and the resulting material properties. The authors make use of mathematical morphology, spatial statistics, image processing, stereology and stochastic geometry to analyze microstructures arising in materials science.

• Quantitative microstructure analysis is one of the most successful experimental techniques in materials science

• Uses examples to demonstrate the techniques

• Program code included enables the reader to apply the numerous algorithms

• Accessible to material scientists with limited statistical knowledge

Nanocharacterization Techniques covers the main characterization techniques used in nanomaterials and nanostructures. The chapters focus on the fundamental aspects of characterization techniques and their distinctive approaches. Significant advances that have taken place over recent years in refining techniques are covered, and the mathematical foundations needed to use the techniques are also explained in detail. This book is an important reference for materials scientists and engineers looking for a through analysis of nanocharacterization techniques in order to establish which is best for their needs.

Light Robotics - Structure-Mediated Nanobiophotonics covers the latest means of sculpting of both light and matter for achieving bioprobing and manipulation at the smallest scales. The synergy between photonics, nanotechnology and biotechnology spans the rapidly growing field of nanobiophotonics. Nanoscale resolutions enable optical scientists to assess ever more accurate information. However, scientific hypothesis testing demands tools, not only for observing nanoscopic phenomena, but also for reaching into and manipulating nanoscale constituents. Taking an application based focus, this book explores how nanophotonics can productively be used in both the biomedical and life sciences, allowing readers to clearly see how structure-mediated nanobiophotonics can be used to increase our engineering toolbox for biology at the smallest scales. This book will be of great use to researchers and scientists working in the fields of optics and photonics. It will also be of great value to those working in the field of biotechnology, showcasing how nanotechnology can help provide new, effective ways to solve biomedical problems.

Nanotechnology, the engineering and art of manipulating matter at the nanoscale (1-100 nm), offers the potential of novel nanomaterials for the treatment of surface water, groundwater, and wastewater contaminated by toxic metal ions, organic and inorganic solutes, and microorganisms. At the present time, many nanomaterials are under active research and development. This timely volume reviews the current state-of-the-art research and development of different nanomaterials (nanostructured catalytic membranes, nanosorbents, nanocatalysts, and bioactive nanoparticles) and their application in water treatment, purification, and disinfection. The expert authors have contributed chapters focusing on the cutting-edge research in this emerging technology and its applications in microbiology and water treatment. The topics covered include the detection of microbial pathogens, nanofibers, and nanobiocides in water purification; nanozymes for biofilm removal; water and wastewater treatment; and re

This book discusses recent advances in hydrogels, including their generation and applications and presents a compendium of fundamental concepts. It highlights the most important hydrogel materials, including physical hydrogels, chemical hydrogels, and nanohydrogels and explores the development of hydrogel-based novel materials that respond to external stimuli, such as temperature, pressure, pH, light, biochemicals or magnetism, which represent a new class of intelligent materials. With their multiple cooperative functions, hydrogel-based materials exhibit different potential applications ranging from biomedical engineering to water purification systems. This book covers key topics including superabsorbent polymer hydrogel; intelligent hydrogels for drug delivery; hydrogels from catechol-conjugated materials; nanomaterials loaded hydrogel; electrospinning of hydrogels; biopolymers-based hydrogels; injectable hydrogels; interpenetrating-polymer-network hydrogels: radiation- and sonochemical synthesis of micro/nano/macroscopic hydrogels; DNA-based hydrogels; and multifunctional applications of hydrogels. It will prove a valuable resource for researchers working in industry and academia alike.

Thermoelectricity and Heat Transport in Graphene and Other 2D Nanomaterials describes thermoelectric phenomena and thermal transport in graphene and other 2-dimentional nanomaterials and devices. Graphene, which is an example of an atomic monolayered material, has become the most important growth area in materials science research, stimulating an interest in other atomic monolayeric materials. The book analyses flow management, measurement of the local temperature at the nanoscale level and thermoelectric transducers, with reference to both graphene and other 2D nanomaterials. The book covers in detail the mechanisms of thermoelectricity, thermal transport, interface phenomena, quantum dots, non-equilibrium states, scattering and dissipation, as well as coherent transport in low-dimensional junctions in graphene and its allotropes, transition metal dichalcogenides and boron nitride. This book aims to show readers how to improve thermoelectric transducer efficiency in graphene and other nanomaterials. The book describes basic ingredients of such activity, allowing readers to gain a greater understanding of fundamental issues related to the heat transport and the thermoelectric phenomena of nanomaterials. It contains a thorough analysis and comparison between theory and experiments, complemented with a variety of practical examples.

This book describes advanced research on the structures and photochemical properties of polyatomic molecules and molecular clusters having various functionalities under cold gas-phase conditions. Target molecules are crown ethers, polypeptides, large size protonated clusters, metal clusters, and other complex polyatomic molecules of special interest. A variety of advanced frequency and time-domain laser spectroscopic methods are applied. The book begins with the principle of an experimental setup for cold gas-phase molecules and various laser spectroscopic methods, followed by chapters on investigation of specific molecular systems. Through a molecular-level approach and analysis by quantum chemical calculation, it is possible to learn how atomic and molecular-level interactions (van der Waals, hydrogen-bonding, and others) control the specific properties of molecules and clusters. Those properties include molecular recognition, induced fitting, chirality, proton and hydrogen transfer, isomerization, and catalytic reaction. The information will be applicable to the design of new types of functional molecules and nanoparticles in the broad area that includes applied chemistry, drug delivery systems, and catalysts.