The aim of this course is to combine basic science of size effect in materials in the micro to nanoscale dimension leading to various cutting-edge applications. The main objective is to introduce the students about the scientific importance and technological potential of developments in micro- and nano structuring of materials.

Solid State Physics: Size dependence of properties, Energy bands, Localized particles; Properties of individual particles: Metal nanoclusters, Semiconducting nanoparticles, Rare gas and molecular clusters and methods of synthesis. Methods of measuring properties: Structure, Microscopy and Spectroscopy. Carbon nanostructures: Carbon molecule, Carbon clusters, Carbon nanotubes, applications of Carbon nanotubes. Bulk nanostructured materials: Solid disordered nanostructures, Nanostructured Crystals. Nanostructured ferromagnetism: Basics of ferromagnetism, Effect of bulk nano-structuring of magnetic properties, Dynamics of nanomagnets, Ferrofluids, nanopores containment of magnetic particles, Nanocarbon ferromagnets, Giant and Colossal magnetoresistance. Quantum Wells, Wires and Dots: Preparation of quantum nanostructures, Size and dimensionality effect, Excitons, Single electron tunnelling. Applications: Nanomachines and Devices; Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS), Nanoelectromechanical Systems (NEMS), Molecular and Super molecular switches, Magnetoelectronics. Applications: memory elements and devices, Nano magnetic sensors and actuators.

- Define key concepts related to size effect in materials leading to enhancement or evolution of electrical, magnetic and optical physical properties. - Summarise the physical processes and laws of physics associated with the nanostructured materials for characterization and application in various systems. - Take measurements in the nanodimension region by selecting and using appropriate measurement systems. - Derive, from the principles discussed, consequences for application in technology. - Derive relevant equations describing basic laws and principles. - Solve numerical problems, from information provided, on the topics covered.

- Integrate the concepts of low dimensional or nanostructured materials for analyses and applications in real physical systems.

N/A

Students will learn via interactive lecture, laboratory demonstration, experiential tutorial and problem based private study.