Taking novel theoretical and practical approaches this book aims to emphasize that surface composition and chemistry are key parameters in nanoparticle properties and applications even though their characterization is seldom adequately performed.

The importance of the nanoparticle characterization in the control of their properties is summarized and the role of the nanoparticle surface chemistry in various applications as well. A brief summary of the usual techniques for surface studies is presented along with the challenging performance required from the analytical instruments.