Three Millennia of Nanocrystals

The broad deployment of nanotechnology and nanomaterials in modern society is increasing day by day to the point that some have seen in this process the transition from the Silicon Age to a new Nano Age. Nanocrystals-a distinct class of nanomaterials-are forecast to play a pivotal role in the next generation of devices such as liquid crystal displays, light emitting diodes, lasers, and luminescent solar concentrators. However, it is not to be forgotten that this cutting-edge technology is rooted in empirical knowledge and craftsmanship developed over the millennia. This review aims to span the major applications in which nanocrystals were consistently employed by our forebears. Through an analysis of these examples, we show that the modern-age discoveries stem from multimillennial experience passed on from our proto-chemist ancestors to us.

Automated summary

Nanocrystals, as a distinct class of nanomaterials, are being increasingly deployed in various devices in modern society and are projected to play a crucial role in the future. However, it is important to recognize that this cutting-edge technology is rooted in millennia of empirical knowledge and craftsmanship.