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The book itself is very easy to read, and is appropriate for both students and practicioners in mechanical, aerospace, chemical and materials engineering. There is minimal math and derivations, and a lot of figures and charts. All necessary concepts are explained in the text, with little need to obtain supplemental reading material.

There are several negatives about this book. First is the exceedingly high price for what is actually not that big a book. The suggested price of ~$150 is on par with many ASM Handbooks, which usually have 2-3 times the amount of information as this work. Second, there is very little discussion on analytical techniques for surfaces. Third, the grammar, spelling, and punctuation could be dramatically improved. An observant reader will catch at least one typo per page of text. Last, this book is limited by the absence of practice or example problems. As such, it reads more like a compendium of review articles than as a textbook in the field.

In all, I would recommend reading it, though not buying it at the full price. I also hope the author puts out a 2nd revised copy that cleans up the grammar and English mistakes.

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I find Dr Ramnarayan Chattopadhyay’e book on advanced surface engineering very informative and useful in many practical ways.

The first chapter on basics of the four thermally assisted surface engineering processes: thermal spraying, welding, vapor phase deposition and diffusion is a very good introduction to this Technology. The following chaptershapters describe the surface engineering processes using advanced heat sources, such as, plasma, ion, electron, microwave, laser, solar, combustion, friction, induction, spark, arc, and their combinations.

If one needed to know about advanced thermal spraying processes, he could get all the information on plasma spraying, HVOF/HVIF or combustion, induction fusion of sprayed deposit in the relevant chapters. Comparison with competitive processes like EBPVD and newer processes like laser spraying are explained clearly. Vital details on process/ procedures/coating properties are provided for most of them. Lists of references after every chapter enable one to search for further information. If one wanted to diversify into new areas, such as, vapor phase deposition, or welding, or diffusion processes, then valuable information is provided as a starting tool.

In addition to metals, modification of polymer or ceramic surfaces, are covered in two chapters. For QC of engineered surfaces using the advanced processes, chapter 19 provides comprehensive help.For life cycle assessment of surface engineered components the chapter 20 is an invaluable resource. Finally, there is a comprehensive subject index for quik reference.

With my four decades of experience, initially with leading organizations/ institutions, and finally running a successful business in UK and India, I strongly recommend this book to all those engaged in surface engineering activities. I have a Ph.D. in Metallurgy and would recommend this book as a starting point for research students wishing to explore new frontiers.

Dr. Sam Nistala

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Edwards goes on to describe companies and researchers currently engaged in such tasks as fabricating carbon nanotubes. Or finding novel uses for the Atomic Force Microscope, like dip pen nanolithography. Where the AFM can trace out patterns on a surface in controlled manner. Quantum dots also make an appearance. Along with the buckyball (C60) and its variants.

A very topical chapter speculates on how nanotech products might aid the production, storage or transmission of energy. Of these, perhaps the use of quantum dots in LEDs that would replace incandescent light bulbs is the low hanging fruit. While improved solar panels are another potentially vast market.