Luminescent Metal Nanoclusters

Book excerpt: Luminescent Metal Nanoclusters: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications provides a comprehensive accounting of various protocols used for the synthesis of metal nanoclusters, their characterization techniques, toxicity evaluation and various applications and future prospects. The book provides detailed experimental routes, along with mechanisms on the formation of benign metallic clusters using biomaterials and a comprehensive review regarding the preparation, properties and prospective applications of these nano clusters in various fields, including therapeutic applications. Various methods to protect nanocluster materials to increase their stability are emphasized, including the incorporation of ligands (protein, small molecule, DNA, thiols). This book addresses a gap in the current literature by bringing together the preparation, characterization and applications of all the possible types of reported metal nanoclusters and their hybrids. It is suitable for materials scientists and engineers in academia and those working in research and development in industry. It may also be of interest to those working in the interdisciplinary nanotechnology community, such as physical chemists. - Covers the most relevant material categories of luminescent nanoclusters such as metal nanoclusters, nano composites and alloy nanoclusters - Provides a comprehensive overview of the various available methods used for the protection of nanoclusters - Discusses the latest advances and future opportunities in addressing challenges in producing benign nanomaterials such as toxicity and stability