Electrified interfaces span from metaVsemiconductor and metaVelectrolyte interfaces to disperse systems and biological membranes, and are notably important in so many physical, chemical and biological systems that their study has been tackled by researchers with different scientific backgrounds using different methodological approaches. The various electrified interfaces have several common features. The equilibrium distribution of positive and negative ions in an electrolytic solution is governed by the same Poisson-Boltzmann equation independent of whether the solution comes into contact with a metal, a colloidal particle or a biomembrane, and the same is true for the equilibrium distribution of free electrons and holes of a semiconductor in contact with a different conducting phase. Evaluation of electric potential differences across biomembranes is based on the same identity of electrochemical potentials which holds for a glass electrode and which yields the Nernst equation when applied to a metal/solution interface. The theory of thermally activated electron tunneling, which was developed by Marcus, Levich, Dogonadze and others to account for electron transfer across metaVelectrolyte interfaces, is also applied to light induced charge separation and proton translocation reactions across intercellular membranes. From an experimental viewpoint, the same electrochemical and in situ spectroscopic techniques can equally well be employed for the study of apparently quite different electrified interfaces.

This second edition of the excellent reference work has been supplemented by such up-to-date topics as depletion forces, surface modification by plasma polymerization, principles of lithography, or inverse gas chromatography, while the number and variety of exercises has been increased. The text reflects the many facets of this discipline by linking physical fundamentals, especially those taken from thermodynamics, with application-specific topics. Similarly, the theory behind important concepts is backed by clearly explained by scientific-engineering aspects as well as a wide range of high-end applications from microelectronics and biotechnology. Written to be understood intuitively by those with a general comprehension of the topic, and not burdened by details, this book is aimed at advanced students (and their teachers) in physics, chemistry and material sciences, as well as engineers and natural scientists requiring background knowledge in surface and interface science.

From fundamental research to its application in the industry, this encyclopedia covers all aspects of electrochemistry. It provides both a comprehensive overview for electrochemists and an accessible look at electrochemical topics for users from other scientific disciplines. Volume 1 in this series offers a detailed examination of thermodynamics and electrified interfaces.

Offers a comprehensive treatment of surface chemistry and its applications to chemical engineering, biology, and medicine. Focuses on the chmical and physical structure of oil-water interfaces and membrane surfaces. Details interfacial potentials, ion solvation, and electrostatic instabilities in double layers.