Issues

Routine production of ultrahigh vacuum, new surface‐analytical techniques and more quantitative theories—all combine to open exciting prospects for the study and use of solid surfaces.

Sputter‐ion and sublimation pumps form a complementary pair that, by transforming gases to the solid phase within the vacuum chamber, can routinely reach pressures as low as $10−11 torr.$

Modifications of the early triode ionization gauge have greatly extended its low‐pressure limit and have also increased the complexity of operation and interpretation.

Gaskets, joints, lubricants and other components must be easily cleanable, unharmed by high temperature and chemically nonreactive; some substances approach this ideal better than others.