Introduction to Nanoengineering

Book excerpt: This book provides a foundation in the burgeoning field of nanoengineering. That is, the exploitation (for the benefit of society) of materials and physical effects that occur on the scale of 1 to 100 nanometers. With an emphasis on the effects of size confinement and the forces which arise between molecules, nanoparticles, and surfaces, the book includes chapters on light–matter interactions (especially of metallic and semiconducting nanocrystals), organic nanostructures, lithography and nanomanufacturing, methods of spectroscopy and visualization, and applications in energy, environmental science, and human health. Written by Darren Lipomi PhD, a Professor of Nanoengineering at UC San Diego, along with Robert Ramji, the book is written in an engaging, jargon-free style. Its use of video supplements and cache of 150 solved problems meets students’ needs regardless of their background of prior courses, yet it contains sufficient depth to satisfy the most curious beginners to the subject. The approach follows the model of teaching from the top down. That is to provide a framework of concepts into which the content of future courses on nanoengineering, nanotechnology, or nanoscience will fit. The text also provides an inviting introduction to the field for students in chemistry, physics, biology, and a broad range of engineering disciplines.