Book Volume 4
Semiconductor Nanostructures and Synthesis Techniques
Page: 1-28 (28)
Author: Kavita and Pooja Rani*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040006
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Semiconductor nanostructures show different properties compared to their
bulk counterparts due to quantum confinement effects and enhanced surface-to-volume
ratio with the reduction in particle size on nanoscale dimensions. This chapter
introduces the nanomaterials, especially semiconductor nanostructures of various
morphologies, quantum nanostructures (quantum dots, quantum wires and quantum
wells) along with conventional 3D nanostructures. The present time is the introductory
era of nanoscience and nanotechnology; synthesis of highly monodisperse
nanostructures for device applications is a challenge for researchers and technocrats.
This chapter discusses at length fascinatingly the bottom-up and top-down synthesis
approaches along with the commonly used nanomaterial synthesis techniques, such as
mechanical milling, lithography, electrospinning, template synthesis, chemical
precipitation, sol-gel method, hydrothermal/solvothermal method, laser ablation, and
other vapour processing methods.
Photocatalytic and Sensing Applications of Semiconductor Nanostructures
Page: 29-57 (29)
Author: Seema Maheshwari, Shikha Bhogal, Kuldeep Kaur* and Ashok Kumar Malik
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040007
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Semiconductor Nanostructures (SCNSs) are of great interest due to their
excellent optical and electronic properties. As a result of their unique properties,
semiconductor nanostructures have found applications in several fields, including
optoelectronics, solar energy conversion, photocatalysis, and sensing. SCNSs show
promising prospects in photocatalytic and sensing applications. Photocatalytic
application of SCNSs provides potential solutions for environmental remediation and
energy generation. Several strategies have been developed to achieve high efficiency
for photocatalytic processes using semiconductor nanostructures. Efforts have also
been made to achieve high sensitivities in sensing applications using SCNSs. In the
present chapter, the photocatalysis activity of semiconductor nanostructures has been
discussed along with the photocatalytic mechanism and strategies for enhancing
photocatalytic efficiency. Several applications of semiconductor photocatalysis in
wastewater treatment, hydrogen production, and air purification are cited in recent
literature. The sensing applications of semiconductor nanostructures have also been
discussed, including their use as chemical sensors, gas sensors, and biosensors.
Titania Nanoparticles: Electronic, Surface and Morphological Modifications for Photocatalytic Removal of Pesticides and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Page: 58-78 (21)
Author: Inderpreet Singh Grover and Rajeev Sharma*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040008
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Tailoring the electronic, surface and morphological properties alter the
catalytic properties of the material(s), specifically at the nanoscale. In the past years, a
plethora of research has been reported to find sustainable and eco-friendly catalysts for
environmental pollution remediation. In this direction, titania nanoparticles have been
intensively explored to check their potential for photocatalytic removal of various
pollutants. In the current scenario, where the growing population needs to feed on an
everyday basis, abundant pesticides indiscriminately are being used to increase crop
yield, thus causing environmental pollution and ecological imbalance. In order to
remove these environmental pollutants along with the polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are formed by incomplete combustion of crop residue or any
other organic matter have been studied, and the results reported for these two
categories of pollutants are summarized in this chapter.
Antimicrobial Properties of Semiconductor Nanoparticles
Page: 79-96 (18)
Author: Amanpreet Kaur and Saurabh Gupta*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040009
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Several metals have been reported to possess antimicrobial properties. Out
of these metal nanoparticles, some semiconductor nanoparticles are expectant solutions
to the pathogenic activities of microorganisms. Many studies have proved that these
nano-sized particles are effective against several Gram-positive as well as Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria. Different types of nanoparticles are synthesized from
different metals, and according to their size, they show effective responses against the
target microorganisms. The exact mechanism of the antimicrobial effect has not been
confirmed, but some supposed methods have been described. These particles also help
to decrease antibiotic pollution as the hefty use of antibiotics can bring drastic changes
in the environment and livings beings in the form of side effects.
Metal-Organic Frameworks: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications
Page: 97-121 (25)
Author: Shikha Bhogal, Irshad Mohiuddin, Aman Grover, Sandeep Kumar, Kuldeep Kaur* and Ashok Kumar Malik
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040010
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are structurally complex structures
constructed from inorganic and organic components. MOFs are highly ordered porous
structures with special characteristics, such as high thermal stability, tunable surface
properties, and large surface area. The MOFs demonstrate a wider range of potential
applications in adsorption, gas storage, catalysis, drug delivery and sensing. As a result,
the research in the area of MOFs is experiencing rapid growth. Considering the
promising prospects of MOFs, this chapter presents an overview of the general
synthesis and characterization methods for MOFs. Besides, the applications of MOFs
in adsorption, sensing, and catalysis are also highlighted.
Nanostructure Impregnated MOFs for Photo-catalytic and Sensing Applications
Page: 122-143 (22)
Author: Aman Grover, Irshad Mohiuddin, Shikha Bhogal, Ashok Kumar Malik* and Jatinder Singh Aulakh*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040011
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), due to their high porosity, enhanced
surface area, rich topology, diverse structures and controllable chemical structures,
have recently emerged as an exciting class of porous crystalline materials. The
integration of nanostructures with MOFs generates MOF composites with synergistic
properties and functions, attracting the broad application prospect. In this chapter, the
primary strategies guiding the design of these materials, including MOFs, are described
as host materials that contain and stabilize guest nanoparticles. A detailed discussion
about the recent progress of nanostructure-impregnated MOFs based on diverse
photocatalytic (e.g., environmental remediation, oxidation of alcohols, CO2
reduction,
and H2
generation) and sensing (organic pollutants, gaseous pollutants, and heavy metal
ions) applications has been provided. With a deeper knowledge of nanostructure-impregnated MOFs, this book chapter will provide better guidance for the rational
design of high-performance MOF-based materials and is likely to shed new light on
future research in this promising field.
Metal-Organic Frame Works (MOFs) for Smart Applications
Page: 144-181 (38)
Author: Manju, Megha Jain, Sanjay Kumar, Ankush Vij* and Anup Thakur*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040012
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Metal-organic framework (MOF) is a class of materials, which is formed by
combining metal/inorganic and organic linkers, resulting in the formation of a
framework with high surface area and permanent porosity. The freedom to vary
inorganic and organic linkers stimulated the synthesis of thousands of MOF structures,
for their utility in various applications. The presence of high porosity, high surface area
and high free volume made these materials a perfect choice among the class of solid
adsorbents. The metal nodes, tunable pore, versatile structure and functionalized
surface allow various types of chemical interactions, viz. electrostatic interactions, π
complexation, H-bonding, coordination bonding, van der Waals interactions,
hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions. All these features made MOF a customizable
material to be utilized for targeted applications. This chapter involves a discussion
about the usage of versatile MOFs in smart applications, such as gas storage, gas
separation and drug delivery, along with a brief discussion about the synthesis of
MOFs.
Understanding Synthesis and Characterization of Oxide Semiconductor Nanostructures through the Example of Nanostructured Nickel Doped Hematite
Page: 182-201 (20)
Author: Sharmila Kumari Arodhiya, Jaspreet Kocher, Jiri Pechousek, Shashank Priya, Ashok Kumar* and Shyam Sundar Pattnaik
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040013
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Hematite is an n-type semiconductor, and its semiconducting properties can
further be improved by nano-structuring and doping. In several optoelectronic devices,
such as thermoelectric and solar cells, both n- and p-type semiconductors are required.
The p-type hematite can be synthesized by doping cations, such as Ni2+, Mg2+, Cu2+, and
Mn2+. Furthermore, hematite is a weak ferromagnetic material, and its magnetic
properties vary with the size of nanoparticles, doping of cations as well as doping
concentration. This chapter discusses various properties of nanostructured nickel-doped
hematite. As nickel is a ferromagnetic divalent dopant with a high magnetic moment,
its doping in hematite together with nano-structuring shows a large variation in both
electrical and magnetic properties in nickel.
Nanostructures for Cosmetics and Medicine
Page: 202-215 (14)
Author: Baby and Saurabh Gupta*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040014
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
The application of various nanoparticles and nanotechnology in cosmetics
and pharmaceuticals is an interesting area of research and development. The use of
nanotechnology has also emerged as an important tool for gene manipulations,
diagnosis of several diseases along with improvement in treatment efficacy. This
chapter has emphasized the use of nano-materials in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
globally with associated legislation in different countries. More than 100 different
products have been listed and discussed with their uses in different fields along with
associated concerns.
Nano-cosmetics and Nano-medicines
Page: 216-231 (16)
Author: Balwinder Kaur*, Subhash Chand and Rajesh Kumar
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040015
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
In today’s fast-moving scenario, nanotechnology has already spread its
wings to nanocosmetics and nanomedicines due to the wide range of physical and
chemical properties associated with nanoparticles. Different types of nanoparticles, like
nanoliposomes, fullerenes, solid lipid nanoparticles etc., have made their entrance into
the nanocosmetic industry. However, the safety concern of nanoparticles has forced the
cosmetic industry to limit their applications. The pharmaceutical industry has explored
the benefits of nanotechnology; it has developed dendrimers, micelles, drug conjugates,
metallic nanoparticles etc. The brief explanation of these nanoparticles provides a
salient glimpse of why they are used in nano pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry.
• Metallic nanoparticles: Used for drug delivery, cancer treatment, and also in
biosensors.
• Nano-liposomes: Bio-compatible and possess entrapment efficiency.
• Nano-emulsions: Used for controlled delivery of bioactive materials.
Nano Ferrites for Biomedical Applications
Page: 232-240 (9)
Author: Gulshan Dhillon, Mansi Chitkara and Inderjeet Singh Sandhu*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040016
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles have attracted attention due to
their compatibility with various biomedical applications. The quantum confinement
and increased surface area to volume ratio of the nanostructures alter their magnetic
properties. There are several bottom-up techniques to synthesize superparamagnetic
iron oxide nanoparticles; however, they offer certain limitations, like the existence of a
secondary phase. The reaction parameters can be controlled to form pure-phase
nanoparticles to increase their scope of applications in the field of medicine. Moreover,
different applications demand different surface coatings of iron oxide nanoparticles.
Rare-earth Induced Nano-crystallization Study of Borate Glass System
Page: 241-259 (19)
Author: Dinesh Kumar, S. M. Rao and Supreet Pal Singh*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040017
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
The study of the physical and structural properties of rare-earth doped borate
glasses is discussed in this chapter. The glasses have been synthesized using the
conventional melt quenching technique. X-ray diffractometer has been used to
determine the amorphous nature of the prepared glass samples. Upon closer inspection
of the XRD patterns, it is observed that the peak width changes, which indicates that
the increase in the concentration of rare earth induces a localized devitrification of the
prepared glasses around the rare earth. To investigate the structural dependence on the
chemical composition of the manufactured glass, various parameters were determined.
The molecular vibrations and rotations related to covalent bonds found in the glasses
were studied using the infrared spectrum.
Functionalization of Carbon Nanotubes for Sensing Applications
Page: 260-277 (18)
Author: Anshul Kumar Sharma, Manreet Kaur Sohal and Aman Mahajan*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040018
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) composed of sp2
carbon units oriented as one
rolled-up graphene have provided exceptional advances in the design of chemical
sensors for environmental and health monitoring. The remarkable properties of CNTs,
such as high active surface area, chemical inertness, high strength, high electrical
conductivity, excellent thermal stability, and low charge-transfer resistance, have made
them a potential candidate for the detection of various explosive, combustible, and
toxic gases, such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitrogen oxides (NOx
), ozone (O3
), and
halogens (Br2
, Cl2
, and I2
). However, CNT-based sensor shows issues like low
sensitivity and slow response/recovery time due to minimum charge transfer between
the pristine CNTs and target analytes. The functionalization of CNTs with metal
oxides, noble metal nanoparticles, and organic semiconductors not only improves the
gas sensing parameters but also enhances their selectivity toward a particular type of
target analyte due to the better charge transfer between the composite and gas analytes.
This book chapter focuses on the ways to create CNT-based sensors exhibiting
selective responses to different target analytes, future developments in the field of
chemical sensors, and the viewpoint of their commercialization.
Graphene Nanoribbons and Doped Graphene
Page: 278-300 (23)
Author: Nancy and Babita Rani*
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040019
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
Graphene has been an interesting material for scientists and engineers by
virtue of its remarkable properties. It has unique electronic properties with zero
bandgap at the Dirac point. The absence of bandgap in graphene limits its application
in electronics. The formation of graphene nanoribbons and substitutional doping of
graphene are the methods to manipulate the geometric and hence electronic structure of
graphene. Starting from the geometric and electronic properties of graphene, this
chapter involves a discussion on the geometric and electronic structure of graphene
nanoribbons and substitutionally doped graphene systems based on first principles
studies.
Strain-Induced 2D Materials
Page: 301-320 (20)
Author: Isha Mudahar* and Sandeep Kaur
DOI: 10.2174/9789815080117123040020
PDF Price: $15
Abstract
In this chapter, different structural, electronic and magnetic properties of
strained graphene nanoribbons are examined. All the calculations are performed by
using density functional theory. Compressive stress along a nanoribbon's longer axis
and tensile stress at the midpoint and perpendicular to the nanoribbon's plane are
studied. There are remarkable changes in the structures, including the formation of
nanoripples in the ribbons. The shape and size of the ribbons lead to variation in their
electronic and magnetic properties. Strained nanoribbons show tunable magnetic
properties that can be used for developing magnetic nano-switches.
Introduction
Synthesis and Applications of Semiconductor Nanostructures consists of 15 chapters that focus on synthesis, characterization and multifaceted potential applications of semiconductor nanostructures, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) and nanostructure impregnated metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Special materials included in the volume include doped glasses, functionalized carbon nanotubes, doped graphene and graphene nanoribbons. The contributions highlight numerous bottom-up and top-down techniques for the synthesis of semiconductor nanostructures. Several industrial processes such as hydrogen production, wastewater treatment, carbon dioxide reduction, pollution control and oxidation of alcohols have been demonstrated in the context of semiconductor nanomaterial applications. The volume also has chapters dedicated to updates on the biomedical applications of these nanomaterials. This volume is a timely resource for postgraduate students, academicians, researchers and technocrats, who are involved in R&D activities with semiconductor nanomaterials and metal organic frameworks.