An essential pre-requisite nanotechnology research area is the reliable synthesis/fabrication routes to well defined nanostructures/nanoparticles, their modification and functionalization as well as their organization into larger hierarchical and functional structures.
This module/ course aims at introducing the fundamentals of thermodynamics and kinetics in solution phase nanofabrication processes. Definitions and calculations using the concepts of Enthalpy (H), Entropy (S) and Gibbs Free Energy (G) will be discussed and their role on reactions will be investigated with examples. Basic chemical calculations, dissolution vs. precipitation processes will be investigated from solubility equilibrium aspects. As a common route to substrate processing electrochemical processes, aka redox reactions, along with the governing principles will be introduced. Electro-less, electrochemical and electrophoretic processes will be discussed. Examples on the control and use of electrochemical processes on the directional, or selective, etching or deposition will be presented. Some common clean room substrate treatment processes will be discussed emphasizing the type and risks associated with the chemicals used.