In single- and multi-component nano-scaled materials, the influences of finite size, shape, hierarchal complexity, and a dynamic surface chemical environment on properties extend well beyond the constraints posed by traditional materials-specific property closures of individual material components. In the Mesoscaled Materials Laboratory (MML) we are currently investigating the synthesis and selected properties of single- and multi-component inorganic nanostructured and thin-film materials. Some of our activities include studying
multi-functionality, including ferroelectricity, in nanostructures and ultra-thin films
aspects of nanowire growth, including the dynamic evolution of metal eutectic nanoparticles during the metal-catalyzed chemical vapor deposition growth of nanowires
electronic behavior in low-dimensional semiconductor and metallic materials and devices, including resonant coupling of electromagnetic radiation with nanowires and related nanostructures, and their Raman scattering
the physical properties of selected nano-laminate solids and thin films
