Transparent conducting materials are key elements in a wide variety of current technologies including flat panel displays, photovoltaics, organic, low-e windows and electrochromics. The needs for new and improved materials is pressing, because the existing materials do not have the performance levels to meet the ever- increasing demand, and because some of the current materials used may not be viable in the future. In addition, the field of transparent conductors has gone through dramatic changes in the last 5-7 years with new materials being identified, new applications and new people in the field. "Handbook of Transparent Conductors" presents transparent conductors in a historical perspective, provides current applications as well as insights into the future of the devices. It is a comprehensive reference, and represents the most current resource on the subject.

Oxide materials are emerging as potential candidates for a variety of existing and new optoelectronic and microwave applications. Critical to enabling this development is the need to have high-quality materials and to be able to construct viable heterostructures. The existence of improved metal oxide films has enabled a deeper understanding of both the oxides' intrinsic properties and their potential application in real world electronics. Because of their special properties or combinations thereof, oxide films are leading to new classes of devices as well as potentially replacing common semiconductor devices. This book focuses on the materials growth, characterization, processing, and application of oxide films employed as the active elements in devices. A new understanding of basic materials properties is currently being combined with the development of novel heterostructures to lead to whole new classes of devices potentially affecting everything from energy conversion to computer memory. Topics include: applications; new ideas and magnetism; ferroelectrics and related materials; transparent conductors; and film deposition methods.

Our energy-hungry world increasingly relies on new methods to store and convert energy for portable electronics, as well as environmentally friendly modes of transportation and electrical energy generation. The development of high-performance power sources are intimately linked to the availability of advanced materials. Designing batteries and capacitors with higher specific energy and power, longer cycle life and rapid charge/discharge rates requires a deeper understanding of the relationship between materials properties and performance. Fuel cells, which offer the potential for clean, efficient conversion of chemical energy to electrical energy, are hampered by high cost and performance problems which can be resolved by new materials and processing techniques. Advanced batteries such as lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride offer the potential for improved performance if low-cost materials can be developed. This book shares research and highlights the importance of materials in energy conversion technologies. Topics include: rechargeable batteries; lithium-ion rechargeable batteries - modelling; fuel cells; lithium-ion rechargeable batteries - cathode materials; battery electrolytes, interfaces and passive films; lithium-ion rechargeable batteries - anode materials and supercapacitors.

How will we meet rising energy demands? What are our options? Are there viable long-term solutions for the future? Learn the fundamental physical, chemical and materials science at the heart of: Renewable/non-renewable energy sources Future transportation systems Energy efficiency Energy storage Whether you are a student taking an energy course or a newcomer to the field, this textbook will help you understand critical relationships between the environment, energy and sustainability. Leading experts provide comprehensive coverage of each topic, bringing together diverse subject matter by integrating theory with engaging insights. Each chapter includes helpful features to aid understanding, including a historical overview to provide context, suggested further reading and questions for discussion. Every subject is beautifully illustrated and brought to life with full color images and color-coded sections for easy browsing, making this a complete educational package. Fundamentals of Materials for Energy and Environmental Sustainability will help enable today's scientists and educate future generations."