Semiconductor Nanotechnology

This book presents research dedicated to solving scientific and technological problems in many areas of electronics, photonics and renewable energy. Energy and information are interconnected and are essential elements for the development of human society. Transmission, processing and storage of information requires energy consumption, while the efficient use and access to new energy sources requires new information (ideas and expertise) and the design of novel systems such as photovoltaic devices, fuel cells and batteries. Semiconductor physics creates the knowledge base for the development of information (computers, cell phones, etc.) and energy (photovoltaic) technologies. The exchange of ideas and expertise between these two technologies is critical and expands beyond semiconductors. Continued progress in information and renewable energy technologies requires miniaturization of devices and reduction of costs, energy and material consumption. The latest generation of electronic devices is now approaching nanometer scale dimensions, new materials are being introduced into electronics manufacturing at an unprecedented rate, and alternative technologies to mainstream CMOS are evolving. Nanotechnology is widely accepted as a source of potential solutions in securing future progress for information and energy technologies.