Current and future applications of nanoclusters

This article deals with some recent developments in metal and in semiconducting nanocluster science. Our studies on the properties, mainly of metal nanoclusters, with respect to future and also to current applications are reviewed, including a series of unpublished results. The general properties of metal clusters of one up to a few nanometers are discussed on the basis of numerous physical investigations in the course of the last few years. Quantum size effects open the door to novel future technologies. The success of future applications of nanoclusters will strongly depend on the availability of three-, two- or one-dimensionally organized materials. Our own very recent results are promising, but also indicate that much more work will be necessary. Much more realistic is the use of metal nanoclusters in heterogeneous catalysis. Finally, novel developments in generating semiconducting nanomaterials in transparent, nanoporous alumina membranes are discussed. CdS and GaN can easily be prepared inside the pores to give photoluminescent foils of unlimited size.