Control of Functionality at Interfaces

Scientists have long recognized that interfaces play key roles in controlling the functionality of materials. Previous foundational studies characterizing structure and structure-property relationships via a wide range of experimental techniques, theory, and multiscale simulations have led to deep understanding of the physics and applications of interfaces. An era has now been entered in which controlling materials functionality is possible through the design and precise synthesis of interfaces that optimize desired persistent behavior, or through control of charges and ion transfer at interfaces. This special topic highlights the knowledge and expertise needed for establishing multifunctional, multi-material, and multidomain control of interfaces for future technologies.

Guest Editors: Jeffrey A. Eastman, Albina Borisevich, Santanu Chaudhuri, Horst Hahn, and Seungbum Hong