Semiconductor nanostructures are ideal candidates for non-metallic plasmonic materials that operate in the near- to mid-infrared range. In contrast to metal nanostructures, semiconductor nanomaterials have the advantage of possessing tunable carrier concentrations. However, unlike metal nanoparticles which are already widely exploited in plasmonics, little is known about the shape-dependent localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) and near-field electromagnetic behavior of semiconductor nanocrystals. Moreover, a major challenge in the fabrication of plasmonic semiconductor nanomaterials is the ability to control LSPRs by independently varying the size, shape, and carrier density of the nanocrystal. In this dissertation, I describe colloidal synthetic methods for fabricating shaped Cu2-xS nanocrystals in which the morphology and stoichiometry of Cu2-xS can be modulated. These shaped Cu2-xS nanocrystals are used to observe the plasmon response for specific LSPR modes. Specifically, I discuss the plasmon response of Cu2-xS nanodisks as a model nanocrystal system. I demonstrate that LSPR wavelength can be tuned by independently varying the aspect-ratio of the disk and the overall carrier density of the nanocrystal. Increased carrier density in Cu2-xS occurs with oxidation and the formation of copper vacancies, an effect which can be suppressed by carrying out synthesis under an inert atmosphere. Using post-synthetic oxidation, Cu2-xS nanodisks achieve a critical carrier density beyond which the nanocrystals undergo an irreversible phase change, which limits tuning capability. To circumvent this, I use a solvothermal process to generate nanodisks with different crystal phases that enable carrier densities beyond this critical limit. This dissertation also explores the differences in near-field coupling between Cu2-xS nanodisks. These experiments were carried out on self-assembled two-dimensional nanodisk arrays. Varying nanodisk orientation produces a dramatic change in the magnitude and polarization direction of the local field generated by LSPR excitation. Moreover, plasmonic coupling is only observed for Cu2-xS phases that possess carrier densities above a critical value. Overall, this dissertation provides new methods for tuning the plasmonic response of semiconductor nanocrystals by controlling size, shape, and carrier density. It also demonstrates new strategies for designing electromagnetic junctions or coupled plasmonic architectures that operate in the infrared using nanocrystals as building blocks.

Nanocrystals research has been an area of significant interest lately, due to the wide variety of potential applications in semiconductor, optical and biomedical fields. This book consists of a collection of research work on nanocrystals processing and characterization of their structural, optical, electronic, magnetic and mechanical properties. Various methods for nanocrystals synthesis are discussed in the book. Size-dependent properties such as quantum confinement, superparamagnetism have been observed in semiconductor and magnetic nanoparticles. Nanocrystals incorporated into different material systems have proven to possess improved properties. A review of the exciting outcomes nanoparticles study has provided indicates further accomplishments in the near future.

Semiconductor nanocrystals and metal nanoparticles are the building blocks of the next generation of electronic, optoelectronic, and photonic devices. Covering this rapidly developing and interdisciplinary field, the book examines in detail the physical properties and device applications of semiconductor nanocrystals and metal nanoparticles. It begins with a review of the synthesis and characterization of various semiconductor nanocrystals and metal nanoparticles and goes on to discuss in detail their optical, light emission, and electrical properties. It then illustrates some exciting applications of nanoelectronic devices (memristors and single-electron devices) and optoelectronic devices (UV detectors, quantum dot lasers, and solar cells), as well as other applications (gas sensors and metallic nanopastes for power electronics packaging). Focuses on a new class of materials that exhibit fascinating physical properties and have many exciting device applications. Presents an overview of synthesis strategies and characterization techniques for various semiconductor nanocrystal and metal nanoparticles. Examines in detail the optical/optoelectronic properties, light emission properties, and electrical properties of semiconductor nanocrystals and metal nanoparticles. Reviews applications in nanoelectronic devices, optoelectronic devices, and photonic devices.

A state-of-the-art reference, Metal Nanoparticles offers the latest research on the synthesis, characterization, and applications of nanoparticles. Following an introduction of structural, optical, electronic, and electrochemical properties of nanoparticles, the book elaborates on nanoclusters, hyper-Raleigh scattering, nanoarrays, and several applications including single electron devices, chemical sensors, biomolecule sensors, and DNA detection. The text emphasizes how size, shape, and surface chemistry affect particle performance throughout. Topics include synthesis and formation of nanoclusters, nanosphere lithography, modeling of nanoparticle optical properties, and biomolecule sensors.

This book comprehensively explores the field of plasmonic nanomaterials and their significant impact on organic synthesis and catalysis. It provides an in-depth understanding of the characterization techniques used for studying these unique materials. It emphasizes the role of plasmonic nanomaterials as efficient catalysts in organic synthesis, showcasing their ability to enhance reaction rates and selectivity. It covers a wide range of organic reactions, including carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bond formation, oxidation, reduction, and so on. It presents detailed case studies and examples that illustrate the successful application of plasmonic nanomaterials in these catalytic processes. The book is a valuable resource for researchers, students, and professionals interested in the synthesis, characterization, and applications of plasmonic nanomaterials in organic chemistry and catalysis.