ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the techniques and methods for characterization of those materials that are assemblies of particles on the nanoscale in three dimensions; more speci†cally, nanoparticles. Such particles can exist in single, fused, aggregated, or agglomerated forms, with spherical, elongated, or irregular shapes. They may be presented for characterization as powders, aerosols, or after dispersal, in a ®uid. They can also be introduced into other materials, such as in a polymer nanocomposite. Obviously, the physical form of a particular nanomaterial has an impact on the choice of the technique(s) and method(s) of its characterization, as well as on handling, safety aspects, and sample preparation. In Chapters 7 and 8, the techniques of choice for characterization of single, or a few, objects that are nanoscale in three dimensions, for example, by techniques such as scanning electron microscopy/transmission electron microscopy (SEM)/(TEM), will be described. An overview of the types, origins, and attributes is given in Figure 6.1. Some types of particles that are of particular current relevance and interest, such as quantum dots, nanotubes, and nanowires, are discussed in other chapters.
