This fully revised, updated and reorganised third edition provides a thorough introduction to the characterisation techniques used in surface science and nanoscience today. Each chapter brings together and compares the different techniques used to address a particular research question, including how to determine the surface composition, surface structure, surface electronic structure, surface microstructure at different length scales (down to sub-molecular), and the molecular character of adsorbates and their adsorption or reaction properties. Readers will easily understand the relative strengths and limitations of the techniques available to them and, ultimately, will be able to select the most suitable techniques for their own particular research purposes. This is an essential resource for researchers and practitioners performing materials analysis, and for senior undergraduate students looking to gain a clear understanding of the underlying principles and applications of the different characterisation techniques used in the field today.

'For more than three decades, the first two editions of D. Phil Woodruff’s text have been a key reference for surface scientists: simple, comprehensive, authoritative, extremely helpful as a first step for graduate students and junior researchers. The fast evolution of the field required a general update, and this was done in a masterful way. But this new edition goes well beyond: the strategy of the presentation has changed radically to reflect the present situation of the field, becoming a 'user-oriented' instrument. As such, it is even more useful than the past editions, and therefore highly recommended.'

Giorgio Margaritondo - École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland

'This is an excellent textbook for introducing students and new researchers to the most important characterization techniques used in surface analysis and adsorption studies, which are of ever-increasing importance in a wide range of chemistry, materials science and nanotechnology research. It is logically organized and very well written for facile understanding by non-experts, yet refers to the best literature sources with more detailed information when needed for the next level of mastery of each method. It is impressive in its in-depth and up-to-date coverage of the most important aspects of this broad range of techniques, all within a moderate-size text. The author is a true expert and pioneer in this field, and it shows in this valuable new contribution.'

Charles Campbell - University of Washington

'The third edition reflects the remarkable evolution in the field of surface science, where multi-technique approaches and scanning probe microscopies are being deployed to understand surface and interface phenomena at the nanoscale. This book will be a valuable cornerstone to the new generation of researchers who are turning their attention to surfaces of ever-increasing complexity, with the ambition of delivering insights at the atomic and molecular level. As ever, Woodruff combines clarity and rigour in his discussion of techniques, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of each approach.'

Rasmita Raval - University of Liverpool

'The third edition of Modern Techniques of Surface Science presents a major update, both in style and content, of this classic text in surface science targeted at all students and practitioners of the experimental techniques of surface science. The content has been brought fully up to date and retains the comprehensive qualities of the earlier editions. It will remain a standard item on laboratory bookshelves for many years to come.'

Neville Richardson - University of St. Andrews, Scotland and ScotCHEM