Excerpt from the Introduction: For most materials, surfaces are the point of interaction with the world, and, as scientists and engineers, understanding the physical and chemical properties of surfaces can give light to many of the issues with, and opportunities to improve, modern materials. In industries where the surface interactivity is vital – including semiconductors, photovoltaics, adhesives, display technologies, plastics, protective coatings, medical devices, and many more – understanding the surface composition becomes crucial. All materials are composed of atoms, with the most stably bonded atoms located deep within the bulk of the material.

However, on the surface there are atoms that are exposed and have increased binding potential.

By understanding the composition and arrangement of the surface atoms, conclusions can be drawn about the conductivity, biocompatibility, catalytic properties, extent of corrosion, and many other material properties appropriate to the material itself.