Papers by Author: Dibyendu Ganguli

Abstract: Compared to information on nanocrystals, that on amorphous nanosolids is on the whole much less organized. On the other hand, growth of structural data in recent years on the latter, that deal with the range of atomic order (short range order and beyond), coordinations of core and surface atoms and similar aspects in amorphous nanoparticles through computer simulation and other techniques, has been very impressive. Similar generation of information is also true for physical phenomena like crystallization and melting. Finally, interesting properties revealed through experimentations point toward important applications. The present article makes a brief survey of these areas and attempts at reaching certain conclusions mostly specific for amorphous nanostructures with respect to the crystalline counterparts. The article analyzes the structural data to try and explain different properties of amorphous nanosolids and also their position in the applications scenario.

Abstract: A brief update (2001 till the present) is presented on published records on nano- and microcomposites involving inorganic compounds as dispersed and matrix or support phase in powder or thin film/coating form. Properties and applications of the currently reported composite materials are also discussed. The status of this field of research is highlighted in a short analysis.