Scientific Sessions

Surface Science and Interface Engineering

Surface science is the study of physical and chemical phenomena that occur at the interface between two phases, such as solid–gas, solid–liquid, solid–vacuum, or solid–solid boundaries. This field focuses on understanding the structure, properties, and reactivity of surfaces at the atomic and molecular levels. The unique characteristics of a material’s surface—often distinct from its bulk—play a critical role in catalysis, adhesion, corrosion, wetting, and electronic device performance. Techniques such as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) are employed to investigate surface morphology, composition, and electronic states. Surface modifications, including coating, chemical functionalization, or nano-patterning, are widely used to tailor properties for specific applications, ranging from biomedical implants to energy storage devices. The understanding gained from surface science provides a foundation for innovations in materials design, nanotechnology, and semiconductor manufacturing.

Interface engineering extends the principles of surface science by intentionally designing and controlling the interactions between different material phases to achieve desired properties and functions. It involves manipulating parameters such as surface roughness, chemical composition, lattice matching, and interfacial bonding strength to optimize device performance and durability. This discipline is crucial in areas like thin-film deposition, composite material fabrication, microelectronics, and photovoltaic systems, where the efficiency and reliability of devices depend heavily on interfacial behavior. For example, in lithium-ion batteries, engineered interfaces between electrodes and electrolytes can minimize degradation and enhance ion transport. Similarly, in semiconductor devices, precise control of metal–semiconductor or dielectric–semiconductor interfaces ensures optimal charge transfer and minimal defects. By combining advanced characterization methods with computational modeling, interface engineering enables the prediction and fine-tuning of interfacial phenomena at the nanoscale. Together, surface science and interface engineering form a synergistic framework that drives advancements in energy, electronics, healthcare, and environmental technologies, bridging fundamental research with industrial applications.