Small is different: Shape-, size-, and composition-dependent properties of some colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals

TitleSmall is different: Shape-, size-, and composition-dependent properties of some colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2004
AuthorsEL-Sayed, MA
JournalAccounts of Chemical Research
Volume37
Pagination326-333
Date PublishedMay
ISBN Number0001-4842
Accession NumberWOS:000221518800006
Abstract

As the size of material becomes equal to or falls below the nanometer length scale that characterizes the motion of its electrons and thus its properties, the latter become sensitive not only to the size but also to the shape and composition of the particles. In this Account, we describe the changes of some interesting properties in different colloidal semiconductor nanoparticles, such as the electronic relaxation rates as spherical nanoparticles change to nanorods, and the changes in the structure or size of very small nanoparticles upon adsorbing strongly bound molecules. We have also determined and explained the difference in the interfacial crossing rates of electrons and holes in a composite nanostructure.

DOI10.1021/ar020204f