Semiconducting Silicon Nanowires for Biomedical Applications

The unique physico-chemical properties of semiconductor silicon nanowires provide a diverse toolbox from which scientists can tackle significant problems in human health at the nanoscale. Biological systems at both the in vitro and in vivo levels are being investigated, along with the fabrication, surface chemistry, and electronic properties of such materials. This book seeks to address the most critical range of issues emerging in this important field and its applications. Part one provides a comprehensive overview of the field and fundamental technologies before moving on to look at tissue engineering and selected drug delivery therapies in part two. The conclusion addresses biomolecular detection and sensing applications of silicon nanowires.

Jeffrey Coffer is Professor of Inorganic and Materials Chemistry at Texas Christian University, Fort Worth. His research interests are in the preparation and properties of semiconductor nanocrystals and nanowires, luminescent silicon-based materials, rare-earth-doped semiconductor nanostructures, and nanophase biomaterials.