The book gives a readily understandable introduction to nanomaterials aimed at all those who want to learn about the basics and the potential of this versatile class of materials without delving too deep into the physical and chemical details. The text begins with an overview of the consequences of small particle size such as the growing importance of surface effects and covers successful, field-tested synthesis techniques of nanomaterials. The largest part of the book is devoted to the particular magnetic, optical, electrical and mechanical properties of materials at the nanoscale, leading over to emerging and already commercialized applications such as nanofluids in magnetic resonance imaging, high-performance nanocomposites or carbon nanotube-based electronics.