Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to doped pnictogen chalcogenide nanoplates, where each nanoplate comprises a rhombohedral crystal of Bi2Te3, Bi2Se3, or Sb2Te3 that is sulfur doped. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a microwave activated method of preparation of the doped pnictogen chalcogenide nanoplates. Other embodiments of the invention are directed to bulk assemblies or fused films of the doped pnictogen chalcogenide nanoplates and their preparation from the doped pnictogen chalcogenide nanoplates such that the bulk assembly or fused film can be employed in a thermoelectric device.

Abstract: The present teachings are directed toward hexagonally patterned porous titania synthesized from a titanium isopropoxide precursor using a viscous template of surface-active agents separating nanoscopic bicontinuous channels of water and isooctane. Subsequent catalyst metal salt reduction in the aqueous nanochannels deposits well-separated catalyst metal nanoparticles on the pore surfaces. These nanocomposites exhibit significantly higher carbon monoxide oxidation efficiency than that obtained with known supports with higher specific surface area; efficiency is believed to be due to decreased mass transfer resistance provided the presently disclosed support material.

Abstract: The present teachings are directed toward hexagonally patterned porous titania synthesized from a titanium isopropoxide precursor using a viscous template of surface-active agents separating nanoscopic bicontinuous channels of water and isooctane. Subsequent catalyst metal salt reduction in the aqueous nanochannels deposits well-separated catalyst metal nanoparticles on the pore surfaces. These nanocomposites exhibit significantly higher carbon monoxide oxidation efficiency than that obtained with known supports with higher specific surface area; efficiency is believed to be due to decreased mass transfer resistance provided the presently disclosed support material.

Abstract: A method of functionalizing a carbon nanotube includes providing a carbon nanotube, irradiating at least one exposed portion of the nanotube surface with ions to generate defect sites on the at least one exposed portion, and forming at least one functional group at a defect site. The method optionally includes attaching a nanostructure to the at least one functional group.

Abstract: A non-linear optical active material for a non-linear optical device includes a matrix material, such as a polymer matrix material, carbon nanotubes dispersed in the matrix material, and chromophores having non-linear optical properties, such as organic dye molecules, attached to defect sites on the carbon nanotubes.

Abstract: An electrical device is disclosed. The electrical device includes a substrate, and a self-assembled molecular layer on the substrate. The self-assembled molecular layer comprises a plurality of molecules, each molecule comprising a first end proximate to the substrate and a second end comprising sulfur distal to the substrate. A copper layer is on the self-assembled molecular layer.