Frontiers in infrared spectroscopy at surfaces and interfaces

An overview of advances in infrared (IR) spectroscopy is presented. Recent results in several areas of topical interest, including examples in biocompatibility, dielectric films, in situ chemical reactions, and electron relaxation in nanoparticles, are highlighted. Major advances in IR experimental methods include the development of accelerator-based sources of IR light and the application of novel techniques to examine complex systems. These advances, and their role in elucidating crucial insights about surfaces and interfaces, are illustrated by recent work in the literature. After reviewing the current state of the art, promising future directions are discussed. In particular, superb opportunities are expected to develop in a broad range of scientific disciplines, e.g., biology, device engineering, chemistry, and physics. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.