Abstract: This invention provides composite materials comprising nanostructures (e.g., nanowires, branched nanowires, nanotetrapods, nanocrystals, and nanoparticles). Methods and compositions for making such nanocomposites are also provided, as are articles comprising such composites. Waveguides and light concentrators comprising nanostructures (not necessarily as part of a nanocomposite) are additional features of the invention.

Abstract: This invention pertains to the synthesis and use of nanowire heterostructures for the storage of information. In certain embodiments, the nanowire heterostructures comprise at least a first material type and a second material type wherein the first material type and the second material type delineate at least two different and distinguishable domains, wherein said domains store coded information. The nanowire heterostructures are particularly useful for identifying, tagging, and tracking compositions, articles of manufacture, or animals. The nanowire heterostructure are also useful for various assays and for storing and recovering information.

Abstract: Nanostructure manufacturing methods and methods for assembling nanostructures into functional elements such as junctions, arrays and devices are provided. Systems for practicing the methods are also provided.

Abstract: Methods of positioning and orienting nanostructures, and particularly nanowires, on surfaces for subsequent use or integration. The methods utilize mask based processes alone or in combination with flow based alignment of the nanostructures to provide oriented and positioned nanostructures on surfaces. Also provided are populations of positioned and/or oriented nanostructures, devices that include populations of positioned and/or oriented nanostructures, systems for positioning and/or orienting nanostructures, and related devices, systems and methods.