The Science of Nanomaterials Basics and Applications

"Nanoparticles have a smaller size as compared to their micro, macro or bulk counterparts. Reduction in size of these particles provides them with some unique characteristics, such as surface-to-volume ratio, quantum confinement effect, surface plasmon response, widening of band gap, etc. These nanoparticles have attracted attention of scientists all over the globe in last few decades. Nanomaterials are a requirement of the day as their use is pushing a number of bulk materials out of use. These have numerous applications in varied fields like solar cells, food industries, targeted gene and drug delivery, medical imaging, polymeric materials, sensors, treatment of water, soil and air pollution, etc. Written in a convenient and easy-to-read style, this book covers the important aspects of nanomaterials by focusing on the many issues related to food and textile industries, treatment of polluted water, health, energy crises, targeted drug delivery, etc. The editors take an interdisciplinary approach to discussing how the scenario will change on a global level in the future and explore when these nanomaterials will replace almost all micro- and macromaterials. The Science of Nanomaterials is a ready-at-hand guide to the many issues related to the use of nanomaterials in drug and gene delivery, sensors, photosplitting of water, wastewater treatment, microbial diagnosis, textile industries, nanocomposites, food industries (safety, security, packaging and preservation), etc. that will be valuable to students at all levels as well as a refresher for scientists, researchers, policymakers, and others"--