Nano-Process Technology for Synthesis and Handling of Nanoparticles

Abstract

The term nanoparticle is used nowadays to indicate particles with diameters smaller than 100 nm. The reduced size of nanoparticles is responsible for changed electronic, optical and magnetic properties of nanoparticles and nanostructured materials in comparison with the bulk material. This can be used for new applications such as quantum dots, luminescent materials, gas sensors, conductive films, and capacitive, resistive, magnetic and optical materials. An overview is given of the different synthesis processes used to provide nanoparticles with the required properties for functional applications, especially electronic and optical ones. We will concentrate on gas-phase processes to show their advantages. Apart from the synthesis techniques, handling techniques are described. Some examples from our own research are given, in which the use of electrical forces plays a central role: size fractionation, deposition and mixing can all be controlled by using charged particles.