The nano-domain and its relevant structural parameters. Zero-dimensional nanostructures: nanoparticles. Synthesis through homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation; synthesis in confined systems. Nanometals, quantum dots, ferrofluids. Uni-dimensional nanostructures: nanorods, nanowires, nanotubes from C DNA Nanoarchitectures.
G. Cao, Nanostructures and Nanomaterials, Synthesis, properties and Application
Learning Objectives
The overall aim of this course is to provide the student a fundamental knowledge about the peculiar properties o materials characterized by a submicron length scale, both from a theoretical and from a practical point of view. More specifically, the teacher will highlight the physico-chemical properties underpinning the design, preparation and characterization of such materials. The course is composed both by an introductory section and by specifical examples of the most important classes of nanomaterials.
Some of the final lectures of the course will be devoted to "hot topics" in Nanoscience, possibly with lectures held by experts in the specific field, which will be varied on an annual basis. At the end of the course, students will have the fundamental knowledge to understant the basic proeprties, the preparation and characterization do the main classes of submicron-scale materials. The students will know how to prepare and characterize some of the most important nanomaterials nowadays in use in Science, in light of the purpose of application for which the nanophase has been designed.
Prerequisites
Courses required: none
Courses recommended: Physical Chemistry of Disperse Systems and Interphases
Physical Chemistry of Formulations
Teaching Methods
Contact hours for: Lectures (hours): 48
Type of Assessment
Oral exam. An intermediate written assessment is possible on a voluntary basis.
Course program
Nanodomain and the relevant parameters for its characterization: shape and size distribution in a nanostructured system and their conquences on physico-chemical properties, fractal dimensions. Steric and electrostatic stabilization. Zero-dimensional structures: nanoparticles. Synthesis through homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation and in confined phases. Nanometals, quantum dots, ferrofluids: prpoerties and main differences with respect to their bulk phases, main applications. Nanowires and nanotubes: CNT. Nanostructures from amphiphilic self-assembly. DNA-based nanostrucutures and applications in the biomedical field.