The aim of this course is to apply the basic science of size effects in materials in the micro to nanoscale dimension to various cutting-edge applications. The main objective is to introduce the students to 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, application 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.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to: 1) Define key concepts related to size effects in materials leading to enhancement or evolution of electrical, magnetic and optical physical properties. 2) Understand the physical processes and laws of physics associated with nanostructured materials for characterization and application in various systems. 3) Understand the fundamentals of measurements on the nanoscale. 4) Analyse and understand applications in technology using the principles learned. 5) Derive relevant equations describing basic laws and principles. 6) Solve numerical problems, from information provided, on the topics covered.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to: 1) Discuss how the concepts of low dimensional or nanostructured materials are relevant to real physical systems.

N/A

The module will be taught via interactive lecture, experiential tutorial, problem-based private study, self directed learning, recommended reading, reflection on and application to physics-related research problems, enquiry based learning, observation, demonstration, skills acquisition and adaptation, mentorship and lab supervision. Students will learn basic concepts and learn how apply their knowledge to solve physical and numerical problems.