11 – Evaluation techniques

Characterizing structure and surface detail of nanoparticles at molecular or atomic level are essential for understanding their properties and their functional and technical performances in technological applications. The number of studies in literature body on manufacture and characterization of nanomaterials increase every day, since their area of utilization expands and their importance is appreciated more. Several techniques have been developed to directly or indirectly characterize nanomaterials. Some of these techniques are surface-sensitive, while others are element-specific. Evaluation techniques for structural analysis and biomechanical properties of the nanomaterials include advanced microscopy technologies, cellular studies with biomaterials, stem cell-based nanomaterial studies, and in vitro and in vivo assessments. For evaluation of nanomaterials, a single technique alone cannot provide enough information. Complementary techniques are required to understand the changes in nanomaterials during physical, chemical, or biochemical processing. Thus, this section covers the most common and advanced techniques for assessment of nanomaterial properties.