Nanotechnology: A Maker’s Course

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/nanotechnology

Introduction

### Course Review: Nanotechnology: A Maker’s Course #### Course Overview Nanotechnology: A Maker's Course, offered on Coursera, is an innovative and immersive learning experience designed for anyone interested in exploring the fascinating world of nanotechnology. This course poses intriguing questions like how to create nano-structures that are a staggering 10,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair and how to observe objects at the nano-scale. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and lab demonstrations, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the capabilities and tools inherent in nanotechnology, emphasizing practical applications in the burgeoning Maker culture. The course is ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike, including hobbyists, educators, and professionals seeking to expand their skills into the nano domain. Whether you're looking to enhance your toolkit or delve deeper into the science of small materials, this course is structured to pave your way to becoming a Nanotechnology Maker pioneer. #### Course Syllabus Highlights The course is well-structured into modules that progressively build your knowledge of nanotechnology. Here are some of the key modules: 1. **Introduction to Nanotechnology**: This module sets the foundation by discussing nanofabrication and characterization techniques, emphasizing the importance of controlled environments for successful nano-scale product development. 2. **Nano Measurement and Characterization Tools**: In this multi-part module, you will learn techniques like Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and various spectroscopy methods. Again, real-world applications and sample preparation techniques are covered comprehensively. 3. **Nanofabrication Techniques**: This section covers the essentials of nanofabrication, including vacuum environments and various deposition methods (like sputter and e-beam evaporation), as well as etching techniques to selectively remove material. 4. **Advanced Nanofabrication Techniques**: Beyond the basics, participants explore advanced methodologies including atomic layer deposition and self-assembly processes. 5. **Closing Thoughts**: The course wraps up with a reflections module, ensuring you can apply what you've learned effectively. #### Review and Recommendations One of the standout features of this course is its hands-on approach to learning. The instructional videos, lab demonstrations, and real-life applications foster a rich educational environment, making complex concepts accessible to beginners while still offering depth for those more experienced. **Pros:** - Comprehensive syllabus covering both fundamental and advanced topics. - Practical demonstrations that enhance the learning experience. - Access to a community of learners and instructors, allowing for networking and peer support. - Flexible learning pace, allowing you to engage with materials as your schedule permits. **Cons:** - Some technical aspects may appear challenging for complete novices, but the course does have foundational modules that address these early on. - The syllabus might require substantial time investment for those with busy schedules. **Recommendation**: I highly recommend **Nanotechnology: A Maker’s Course** for anyone looking to take their first steps into the world of nanotechnology or enhance their existing knowledge. The integration of theory and practical application promotes not just learning, but inspiration as well. By the end of the course, learners will be equipped with the knowledge needed to explore their own projects in nanotechnology, tapping into one of the most exciting frontiers in science and technology today. If you're curious about how small-scale innovations can lead to significant advances in various fields, this course will definitely provide you with both the knowledge and the tools necessary to make an impact in the Maker community. Enroll today and embark on a journey into the minute yet magnificent world of nanotechnology!

Syllabus

Introduction to Nanotechnology

Welcome to Nanotechnology! In this module, you will learn some of the basics of nanofabrication and nanocharacterization techniques as well as specific applications of nanotechnology in commercial products. You’ll be able to explain why a cleanroom and vacuum environment are necessary for creating nanotechnology products. Finally, you will be able to explain how we use light, x-rays, and electron beams to characterize objects at the nanoscale. For more detailed learning objectives for each video, please see the first reading.

After this module, you will be able to explain sample preparation and imaging techniques used in scanning electron microscopy. You will also be able to explain the benefits of environmental scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, you will discover how energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy can be paired with scanning electron microscopy to gain elemental information about samples.

In this module, we will look at transmission electron microscopy and cryo-transmission electron microscopy. You will learn to describe the basic function of the equipment as well as how samples are prepared and imaged using these techniques.

In this module, we will see demonstrations of micro-computed tomography, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and optical spectroscopy. You will learn the basic function of the equipment and how samples are prepared and measured.

In this module, we will discover how and why a vacuum environment is required in nanofabrication, compare the operation of three types of vacuum pumps, and look at vacuum deposition of thin films using three different methods: sputter evaporation, e-beam evaporation and thermal evaporation.

We will look at some techniques for making things with nanotechnology using thin film techniques; in this module you will learn to describe and compare atomic layer deposition, chemical vapor deposition, and plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition.

In this module, we will investigate 5 different methods used in nanotechnology for patterning. You will be able to explain the basic processes of photolithography, e-beam lithography, ion beam lithography, hot embossing, and self-assembly.

In this module, you will learn to describe and compare wet and dry etching processes. These processes are used to selectively remove material in nanofabrication.