Chapter 1 - Nanostructured thin films–background, preparation and relation to the technological revolution of the 21st century

Abstract

Abstract Thin film technology is a mature field encompassing a wide range of applications such as electronics, optical communications, and biosystems. The list of potential applications is practically endless with an impact in nearly every industrial sector. Many thin film applications are linked to developments in the semiconductor industry such as thin film transistors, large-area displays, microelectromechanical/nanoelectromechanical systems, planar waveguides, and magnetic data storage. This introductory chapter provides a new insight into nanostructured thin films. It gives an overview on the application on thin films, a general classification of nanostructured thin films, a brief introduction of the methods of synthesis of these nanostructures. Finally, the chapter discusses the challenges faced during the scale-up of the processes and the most important aspects to be considered when planning the industrialization of a developed process.