Other applications

Abstract

Hierarchical nanostructured electrical devices have shown dramatic performance enhancement. However, the application of hierarchical nanostructures is not just restricted to electronic devices. The performance enhancement could be attributed to the structural functionality of the hierarchical structuring, which cannot be observed in thin films or bulk material based devices. In the preceding chapters, various hierarchical nanostructures for efficient energy consumption electronics applications were discussed. Among the biggest electronics using nanostructures are displays (Chapter 10) and sensors (Chapter 11). In this chapter, we discussed additional applications of hierarchical nanostructures in (1) highly efficient energy consumption devices including transparent conductors, highly flexible and stretchable electrodes, light emitting diodes, and (2) mechanical hierarchical nanostructures, for example, for superhydrophobic and selfcleaning surfaces, pool boiling enhancement for more efficient heat transfer, and gecko-inspired adhesives. As long as the surface area or surface characteristics are considered as important factors in enhancing the functionality of the devices, applying hierarchical nanostructures is one of the most powerful and promising approaches with a very high degree of design freedom. More diverse applications of hierarchical nanostructures in broader fields will be easy to find in the near future.