Synthesis, Properties and Applications of Nanocrystals in Materials and Life Sciences

Although colloidal nanocrystals of many different materials can be synthesized in high quality in respect of size, shape and crystallinity, our understanding of their formation and the involved chemical reactions is still rather poor. We will present detailed studies on nucleation and growth as well as ion exchange processes in nanocrystals. These include mass spectrometric, optical, electron microscopic and x-ray synchrotron experiments.<br/>Almost all applications of nanocrystals require the control of surface properties in respect of solubility, miscibility, biocompatibility, passivation of surface states as well as electronic and magnetic interaction with the environment. We will show various examples for ligand exchange and encapsulation of quantum dots, plasmonic and magnetic nanocrystals and will report on applications as high-performance ceramics, for display and lighting, electrocatalysis as well as for biolabeling and drug delivery.