Experimental Surface Science

The study of the physical and chemical properties of solid surfaces is one of the fastest growing areas in condensed-matter science. Such studies provide a nanometer-scale picture of surface geometric, electronic and chemical structures, chemical reactions that occur at surfaces, and the interaction of radiation with surfaces.  Surface experiments are often carried out in ultra-high vacuum (UHV), so that samples can be prepared which are clean and well-ordered on the atomic level. Because of the need for extremely good vacuum, the American Vacuum Society has become one of the premier organizations for the dissemination of surface science.  Surface science techniques have matured to the point where they are now applied to a wide variety of problems previously untenable. Our research program involves both the application of existing techniques to important physical, chemical, technological and environmental problems, as well as the development of new techniques.  The following links describe some of our research areas in more detail.

Ion-Surface Interactions

Surface Reactions in Semiconductor Processing

Desorption Induced by Electronic Transitions

Environmentally Relevant Surface Chemical Reactions

Growth of Metal Fluoride Thin Films

Facilities