Physical and chemical properties of large metal and semiconductor clustersin view of future applications

Metal and semiconductor clusters in the nanometer size regime exhibit quant um size behavior which is demonstrated by means of scanning tunneling spect roscopy and scanning capacitance microscopy on single clusters. Cluster mon olayers can be prepared by self-assembly processes on modified surfaces of substrates. Clusters in the channels of nanoporous alumina are promising ca ndidates not only for a novel kind of cluster arrangement for future electr onic applications but also for the easy generation of light emitting diodes .