What is Nanoarchitectonics: Origin and Task

Abstract

Nanoarchitectonics represents a new concept for the fabrication of functional material systems through harmonization of various actions including atomic- and molecular-level manipulation, chemical reactions, self-assembly and self-organization and their modulation by external fields and/or stimuli. These working principles can be applied to all categories of materials, regardless of the material type, be that inorganic, organic, or biomaterials. Electroactive, photoactive and bioactive systems and their functional units can be combined into architectures that produce soft nanomaterials, coordination polymers, nano-machines, functionalized nanocarbons, catalytic materials, and more. Therefore, nanoarchitectonics can work as a navigator to convert conventional materials into integrated molecular systems displaying advanced, concerted functions. This chapter not only introduces the essential elements of “nanoarchitectonics” to readers new to the field, but also provides a historical perspective in order to gain a better understanding of the subject in light of its earliest phases and subsequent evolution.