Nanotechnology is an exciting new field that deals with the design of extremely small structureshaving critical length dimensions on the order of a few manometers. Because of the broad fieldof potential applications, ranging from tiny robots and computers to tissue engineering andcompletely new materials, this technology has not only captured the attention of researchers andbusinesses in many different disciplines, but also enjoys enormous public interest throughwidespread coverage in the media, in particular following the recent announcements ofsubstantial govemment-sponsored nanotechnology initiatives in many countries around theworld. This paper reviews recent advances in the field of nanostructured materials produced byelectrodeposition which, over the past decade, has evolved from a laboratory-scale phenomenonto a practical materials technology. After presenting some of the fundamentals dealing withsynthesis, structure, and properties of electrodeposited nanocrystals, several examples of fullydeveloped and emerging applications of these materials will be discussed. The overall objectiveof this paper is to help increase the awareness for this rapidly growing field in the electroplatingcommunity and to point towards opportunities for this industry.
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