Materials Science, Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials Conference

Surface science and surface engineering is an interdisciplinary branch of knowledge focusing on the identification and engineering of the behaviours of surface of material for various applications. If the behavior of interfaces in interaction of the solid surfaces at atomic and molecular level is understood, then engineering solutions for changes in properties such as adhesion, corrosion and wear can be delivered through coatings, films, and surface treatments to the material. Aerospace, Electronics, Biomedical engineering industries, etc., are some areas that cannot be fully understood without some knowledge of surface engineering.

Thin films and coatings are produced through techniques for example CVD, PVD, and plasma treatment to enhance surface characteristics. These technologies allow slab and plate sizes, thickness, composition and structure to be controlled in a very detailed fashion thus offering a high level of solutions customization. For example, the incorporation of thin anti corrosive films in aerospace and automobile industries is common in an effort to shield metal parts from corrosion by the environment.

Nanostructured surface is a relatively new field of study and application in surface engineering aimed at the formation of specific textures or patterns on the surface of a material at the nano level. These surfaces improve characteristics such as anti-wettability, coloration, and friction, and can be used on devices ranging from clear glass that cleans itself to the anti-reflective coatings on eyeglasses and inocuous biomaterials that reject bacterial attachment.

Tribology is the study of friction, wear and lubrication and is therefore directly connected with surface science. Surface engineering is applied by engineers to save money by provide long-lasting and low-friction wear protection that will prolong the life of machinery parts especially in manufacturing, auto, and energy segments.

Morphological techniques including AFM and SEM reveal fundamental parameters at the surface level in order to improve design and performance.

Progress made in the field of surface science and engineering leads to development of new technologies and methods influencing various industries and providing better material properties, environmentally friendly and more efficient materials, structures, and devices in various fields of utilization.