Silicon-Based Hybrid Nanoparticles

Book excerpt: Silicon-Based Hybrid Nanoparticles: Fundamentals, Properties, and Applications focuses on the fundamental principles and promising applications of silicon-based hybrid nanoparticles in nanoelectronics, energy storage/conversion, catalysis, sensors, biomedicine, environment and imaging. This book is an important reference source for materials scientists and engineers who are seeking to understand more about the major properties and applications of silicon-based hybrid nanoparticles. As the hybridization of silicon nanoparticles with other semiconductors or metal oxides nanoparticles may exhibit superior features, when compared to lone, individual nanoparticles, this book provides the latest insights. In addition, the silicon/iron oxide hybrid nanoparticles also possess excellent fluorescence, super-paramagnetism, and biocompatibility that can be effectively used for the diagnostic imaging system in vivo. Similarly, gold-silicon nanohybrids could be used as highly efficient near-infrared hyperthermia agents for cancer cell destruction. - Outlines the major thermal, electrical, optical, magnetic and toxic properties of silicon-based hybrid nanoparticles - Describes major applications in energy, environmental science and catalysis - Assesses the major challenges to manufacturing silicon-based nanostructured materials on an industrial scale