ABSTRACT
Crystal growth is a complex process which originates from the solubility limits of chemical species in solution. Multiple paths can be followed from dissolved ions to solid crystals. A particular case is the formation of crystalline nanoparticles, also known as nanocrystals. Accurate control in the ultimate nanocrystal morphology often requires separation of the nucleation and growth stages, in such a way that nucleation is completed before growth starts and no new nuclei are formed during the growth stage. As a better understanding has been gained regarding the processes involved in nanocrystal growth, it has been possible to increase morphological complexity and a variety of branched nanoparticles have been reported, including tetra-pods and multipods, but also so-called nanoflowers or nanostars, among many other fancy names. The main conclusion to be extracted from this discussion is that we should remain open minded toward the endless possibilities which application of traditional chemistry concepts can deliver to the wide field of nanocrystal synthesis.
