Interface science has changed significantly during the last 10–15 years. This is partially due to
scientific breakthroughs. For example, the invention of scanning probe microscopy and refined
diffraction methods allow us to look at interfaces under “wet” conditions with unprecedented
accuracy. This change is also due to the greatly increased community of interfacial scientists.
One reason is certainly the increased relevance of micro- and nanotechnology, including
lab-on-chip technology, microfluids, and biochips. Objects in the micro- and nanoworld are
dominated by surface effects rather than gravitation or inertia. Therefore, surface science is
the basis for nanotechnology.

Preface V
Introduction
Liquid surfaces
Thermodynamics of interfaces
The electric double layer
Effects at charged interfaces
Surface forces
Contact angle phenomena and wetting
Solid surfaces
Adsorption
Surface modification
Friction, lubrication, and wear
Surfactants, micelles, emulsions, and foams
Thin films on surfaces of liquids
Solutions to exercises
Appendix
A Analysis of diffraction patterns
B Symbols and abbreviations
Bibliography
Index