Very small particles are able to show astonishing properties. For example, gold atoms can be combined like strings of pearls, while nanoparticles can form one-, two- and three-dimensional layers. These assemblies can be used, for instance, as semiconductors, but other electronic as well as optical properties are possible.
An introduction to the booming field of "nanoworld" or "nanoscience," from fundamental principles to their use in novel applications.
With its clear structure and comprehensive coverage, backed by numerous examples from recent literature, this is a prime reference for chemists and materials scientists working with and developing nanoparticle systems.
A bestselling title in its second edition. A must-have reference for chemists and materials scientists.

Many compounds of biological and pharmacological interest are as- metric and show optical activity. Approximately 40% of the drugs in use are known to be chiral and only about 25% are administered as pure enantiomers. It is well established that the pharmacological activity is mostly restricted to one of the enantiomers (eutomer). In several cases, unwanted side effects or even toxic effects may occur with the inactive enantiomer (distomer). Even if the side effects are not that drastic, the inactive enantiomer has to be meta- lized, which represents an unnecessary burden for the organism. The admin- tration of pure, pharmacologically active enantiomers is therefore of great importance. The ideal way to get to pure enantiomers would be by enantioselective synthesis. However, this approach is usually expensive and not often practicable. Usually, the racemates are obtained in a synthesis, and the separation of the enantiomers on a preparative scale is necessary. On the other hand, there is also a great demand for methods of enantiomer separation on an analytical scale for controlling synthesis, checking for racemization p- cesses, controlling enantiomeric purity, and for pharmacokinetic studies. C- ventional methods for enantiomer separation on a preparative scale are fractionated crystallization, the formation of diastereomeric pairs followed by repeated recrystallization, and enzymatic procedures. In recent years, ch- matographic methods such as gas chromatography and, especially, liquid ch- matography have attracted increasing interest for chiral separation, both on analytical and preparative scales.

The ultimate reference book, providing an in-depth introduction to nanotechnology, discussing topics from ethics and philosophy to challenges faced by this up-and-coming industry, all in one comprehensive volume. The topic could not be hotter, Nanotechnology is the new technology drive of the 21st century paired with existing, multibillion dollar markets and fundings.

The entire reference set of 9 volumes gives an excellent, in-depth overview of everything you need to know about nanotechnology and nanoscience with each volume dedicated to a specific topic which is covered in detail by experts from that particular field.