In sharp contrast to recent works that deal with classical surface phenomena, Introduction to Surface Chemistry and Catalysis is unique in emphasizing the modern concepts of surface chemistry and catalysis uncovered by molecular level studies of surfaces over the past two decades.

This important new book reveals our current molecular level understanding of surface phenomena and its relation to macroscopic surface properties. It focuses on the properties of solid-gas and solid-vacuum interfaces, because most of the results of modern surface science studies on the molecular level come from the scrutiny of these interfaces.

The opening chapter reviews the nature of various surfaces and interfaces encountered in everyday life, the concept of adsorption, and the surface science techniques used to obtain much of the available information on the properties of surfaces. After concise discussion of the structure of clean and adsorbate-covered surfaces, the book probes the equilibrium thermodynamic properties of surfaces and interfaces, placing special emphasis on surface segregation - a major phenomenon in surface chemistry.

In its subsequent discussion, Introduction to Surface Chemistry and Catalysis treats such important areas as energy transfer during gas-surface interactions, elementary surface reaction steps, adsorption, surface diffusion, and desorption. The book goes on to examine the electrical properties of surfaces, with coverage of such major areas as the surface space charge, surface ionization, and the excitation of valence and inner shell electrons.

The unique character of the surface chemical bond - spotlighted in recent surface science studies - is then explored, with a particular emphasis on adsorbate-substrate and adsorbate-adsorbate interactions.

What follows is singularly in-depth coverage of surface catalysis, including a major conceptual review. Here Introduction to Surface Chemistry and Catalysis establishes our current understanding of catalysis, through case histories involving ammonia synthesis, carbon monoxide hydrogenation, and platinum-catalyzed hydrocarbon conversion. The book concludes with discussion of the mechanical properties of surfaces, highlighting the special importance of the buried interface.

Among the topics covered are adhesion and tribological properties, friction, crack formation, and lubrication.

Enhanced by review sections and problem sets in each chapter, Introduction to Surface Chemistry and Catalysis can serve as a major text for students of physical sciences and engineering. Its stand-alone chapters can also be used as supplementary reading in courses in general science, thermodynamics, crystal structures, chemical bonding, kinetics, solid state chemistry, and solid state physics.

In addition, the book also works as a highly useful reference for scientists and engineers in need of data and concepts related to the properties of surfaces and interfaces.