Nanocrystal Assemblies: Current Advances and Open Problems

Abstract

We explore the potential of nanocrystals (termused equivalently to nanoparticles) as buildingblocks for nanomaterials, and the current advances and open challenges for fundamental science developments and applications. Nanocrystal assemblies are inherently multiscale, and thegeneration of revolutionary material propertiesrequires a precise understanding of the relationship between structure and function, the former being determined by classical effects andthe latter often by quantum effects. With anemphasis on theory and computation, we discuss challenges that hamper current assemblystrategies, and to what extent nanocrystal assemblies represent thermodynamic equilibriumor kinetically trapped metastable states. Wealso examine dynamic effects and optimization of assembly protocols. Finally, we discusspromising material functions and examples oftheir realization with nanocrystal assemblies.