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Nature 437, 637 (29 September 2005) | doi:10.1038/437637a; Published online 28 September 2005

Introduction Introduction: Surfaces and interfaces

Magdalena Helmer1

The importance of interfaces cannot be overestimated. They play a vital role in technological applications as diverse as catalysis, microelectronics, lubrication, corrosion, photography and in many environmental processes (including, infamously, stratospheric ozone destruction).