Water Droplets to Nanotechnology. A journey through self-assembly

The ability of nanostructures to organize into complex arrangements leads to unique materials with valuable applications. Self-assembly is therefore a key concept for
nanotechnology, but it can be quite a complex and difficult
subject to approach. Water Droplets to Nanotechnology gives a simple and general overview of the different self-assembly processes which are at the basis of recent developments in nanotechnology.
The book shows how simple phenomenon from everyday
examples can become sophisticated tools for self-assembly and the fabrication of nanomaterials. By exploring the coffee stain and tears of wine phenomena, the first part looks at how
the evaporation of a droplet of colloidal solution can be used in designing organized structures. This leads onto more complex systems such as templated porous materials, photonic crystals, colloidal nanocrystals and quasi-crystals through to bottom-up
systems for designing hierarchal materials.
By taking the reader on a journey from everyday life to the secrets of nanotechnology, the book is suitable for a nonspecialist
audience interested in self-assembly as well as the wider perspectives and latest developments of nanoscience.