Nanorod

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Goldnanorods1

ZnO nanorod gas sensor

== Nanorod ==

Nanorods are a type of nanoparticle that have a rod-like shape. These structures typically have dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers. Nanorods are synthesized from various materials, including metals, semiconductors, and polymers. Their unique shape and size-dependent properties make them useful in a variety of applications, such as medicine, electronics, and photovoltaics.

Synthesis

Nanorods can be synthesized using several methods, including chemical vapor deposition, electrochemical deposition, and seed-mediated growth. The choice of synthesis method depends on the desired material and application. For example, gold nanorods are often synthesized using a seed-mediated growth method, which allows for precise control over their aspect ratio.

Properties

The properties of nanorods are highly dependent on their size, shape, and material composition. For instance, gold nanorods exhibit unique optical properties due to surface plasmon resonance, which can be tuned by adjusting their aspect ratio. Similarly, semiconductor nanorods have size-dependent quantum confinement effects that influence their electronic and optical properties.

Applications

Nanorods have a wide range of applications due to their unique properties:

• In medicine, nanorods are used for drug delivery, imaging, and photothermal therapy. Their small size allows them to penetrate biological barriers, and their surface can be functionalized with various biomolecules for targeted delivery.
• In electronics, nanorods are used in the fabrication of nanoscale transistors and sensors. Their high surface area and unique electronic properties make them suitable for these applications.
• In photovoltaics, nanorods are used to improve the efficiency of solar cells. Their ability to absorb and convert light into electricity makes them valuable in the development of next-generation solar technologies.

Challenges

Despite their potential, the use of nanorods faces several challenges. These include issues related to their synthesis, such as achieving uniform size and shape, as well as concerns about their biocompatibility and toxicity in medical applications. Ongoing research aims to address these challenges and unlock the full potential of nanorods.

See also

• Nanoparticle
• Nanotechnology
• Gold nanorod
• Quantum dot
• Surface plasmon resonance
• Photothermal therapy
• Drug delivery