Program Structure

Module 1: Introduction to Nanostructures

• What defines a nanostructure.
• Why nanoscale properties differ from bulk.
• Surface area and interface dominance.
• Examples of nanostructures in daily products (overview).

Module 2: Classes of Nanostructures (0D–3D)

• 0D: nanoparticles, quantum dots (overview).
• 1D: nanowires, nanotubes (overview).
• 2D: graphene, nanosheets (overview).
• 3D: nanoporous materials, nanocomposites (overview).

Module 3: Nucleation and Growth

• Nucleation concepts and critical size.
• Growth mechanisms: diffusion, aggregation (overview).
• Controlling size distribution and shape.
• Stabilization: capping agents and surface ligands.

Module 4: Fabrication and Synthesis Routes

• Top-down: lithography and milling (overview).
• Bottom-up: sol-gel, hydrothermal, CVD (overview).
• Self-assembly and templating concepts.
• Green synthesis basics.

Module 5: Structure–Property Relationships

• Quantum confinement effects (intro).
• Optical behavior: plasmonics and emission (overview).
• Electrical transport and percolation concepts.
• Mechanical strengthening and nanoscale defects.

Module 6: Characterization Toolkit

• Microscopy: SEM/TEM concepts for morphology.
• Scanning probes: AFM basics (overview).
• Crystallinity: XRD basics.
• Surface chemistry: FTIR/Raman concepts.

Module 7: Interfaces, Defects, and Stability

• Interfaces and grain boundaries.
• Defects and their impact on properties.
• Aggregation, oxidation, and aging issues.
• Stabilization strategies for long-term performance.

Module 8: Applications and Translation

• Energy: catalysts, batteries, solar (overview).
• Biomedicine: delivery and diagnostics (overview).
• Environment: adsorption and membranes (overview).
• Scale-up, QA/QC, safety concepts.

Final Project

• Choose an application area.
• Deliverables: nanostructure type + synthesis plan + characterization plan + expected benefits + safety notes.
• Submit: short technical proposal.

Aim

Foundations of Nanostructures: Key Concepts and Principles builds a clear understanding of nanoscale structures, how they form, how they are measured, and how their properties enable modern applications in materials, electronics, energy, and biotechnology.

Program Objectives

• Nanoscale Basics: size, surfaces, interfaces, and confinement effects.
• Nanostructure Types: 0D, 1D, 2D, 3D structures and examples.
• Formation: nucleation, growth, self-assembly concepts.
• Fabrication: top-down and bottom-up routes (overview).
• Properties: optical, electrical, mechanical, magnetic changes.
• Characterization: microscopy and spectroscopy basics.
• Defects: role of defects, grain boundaries, and interfaces.
• Capstone: propose a nanostructure for a chosen application.

Participant Eligibility

• Students/professionals in Materials, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Nanotechnology
• Beginners and early researchers
• Basic chemistry/physics helpful

Program Outcomes

• Explain key nanostructure classes and formation concepts.
• Understand structure–property relationships.
• Identify suitable characterization methods.
• Create a nanostructure application proposal.

Program Deliverables

• e-LMS Access: lessons, quizzes, templates.
• Toolkit: concept sheets, characterization checklist, project template.
• Assessment: certification after project submission.
• e-Certification and e-Marksheet: digital credentials.

Future Career Prospects

• Nanomaterials Research Intern
• Materials Lab Analyst
• R&D Trainee (Nanostructures)
• Quality Control Assistant

Job Opportunities

• R&D Labs: synthesis and characterization roles.
• Industry: coatings, composites, energy materials companies.
• Universities: nanoscience and materials research groups.
• Startups: nanostructure-based product development teams.