Synthetic Methods of Nanomaterials

Abstract

The word “nano” is from the Greek word “nanos” meaning “dwarf.” It is a prefix used to describe “one billionth” of something. A nanometer (nm) is a billionth of a meter or a millionth of a millimeter. This chapter started with an introduction to nanoscience followed by what nanostructure is and its applications of nanotechnology (basic idea) and various size-dependent properties of nanomaterials. In this chapter, some unique properties like 1) semiconducting nanoparticles and 2) metallic nanoparticles are explained with examples. Synthesis aspects of nanomaterials also need to be understood using bottom-up and top-down approaches including mechanical alloying and shape and size control of nanomaterials. In the current scenario, the research and development of nanotechnology is very active globally, and nanotechnologies are already used in many products. Further, nanotechnologies are also being developed for use in environmental applications (e.g., clean-up of environmental pollutants).