The Physical Chemistry of Surface Films [antikvár]

Foreword With the appearance of this book we have before us the last of a long series of precious gifts W. D. Harkins has presented to physical chemistry. When I was asked to write a few words of introduction I agreed to do so not because I consider myself an expert in the special field covered by the text, but rather because Harkins attacks his problems by a method which not only appeals to me very much but also is, I believe, highly efficient. Prepared as I was by many a friendly chat with him during the course of the last ten years I had no trouble recognizing his method everywhere throughout the whole book. First of all Harkins has at his disposition a tremendous amount of factual and quantitative information. Secondly, where he has some doubt or needs more he does not hesitate to start experimentation by himself or his co-workers, carried out carefully and with much attention to detail. Lastly, for him the problem is not finished before all this information has led to a clear picture of what is happening on a molecular scale. In his book he uses these tools to make us understand the molecular structure of surfaces and surface films as the foundation on which colloid chemistry must be erected. The addition of a chapter on lyophobic colloids and their electric double layer, contributed by E. J. W. Verwey, shows how well aware Harkins is of this connection. Personally, I like to consider Harkins' work as a highly important pioneering step on a trail which I trust others will follow, until ultimately we reach a real understanding of catalytic action. P. Debye Ithaca, N. Y. March 2, 1952