This volume brings together the work of both theoreticians and experimentalists on the synthesis of nanoparticles and their use in catalytic reactions. Heterogeneous catalysis is a core area of contemporary physical chemistry posing major fundamental and conceptual challenges, and nanoparticles are ubiquitous in many heterogeneous catalysts, therefore it is now opportune to focus a Faraday Discussion on key aspects of their synthesis, characterisation and use. This Faraday Discussion will explore the modern methods being used to design, synthesise and characterize nanoparticles and how these bridge across the disciplines of physical science and chemical engineering. The core aim of this discussion meeting is to develop a fundamental understanding of these crucial aspects of catalytic science, especially relating to nanoparticle synthesis and use in catalytic reactions, knowledge of which is essential for the design of new catalysts.