By Phil Danielson
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By Phil Danielson
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Experimental Innovations in Surface Science This book really belongs in its own category. It’s not a book dedicated to teaching vacuum technology, nor is it a source book of vacuum technology in general. Although the title might make it appear to be a book aimed entirely at surface science experimenters, it’s really an incredible collection of practical information of potential use to all vacuum practitioners who might have to design a specific device that can’t be either bought on the open market or can’t afford a commercial unit. It is, in fact, a veritable treasure trove of practical ideas and information. Any attempt to accurately categorize this book is doomed to failure because of its really wide-ranging scope. Granted, there are sections of the book of major use to surface science, but it goes far beyond that. The author is primarily a surface scientist, but it’s difficult indeed to work in surface science without being able to understand ultrahigh vacuum. Calling it an ultrahigh vacuum book is only a little helpful since it is also of use to those working in high vacuum. The contents are essentially a collection of various techniques, tricks, and overall design and performance ideas garnered from many years of experience and collecting. The sources range from the author’s own personal problem solving to information solicited from other practical practitioners as well as material from various published sources. In short, this book contains a collection of priceless and practical information. The caveat needs to be stated that information is only potentially priceless until it is needed, and then it becomes priceless indeed. The potential barrier is easily overcome if we consider that, often, the best ideas are those that are triggered by someone else’s ideas. In this case, perusal of the contents can result in the solution of a problem not covered in the book being kick-started by another problem that is covered. There are times that when digging for gold in a potential gold mine can result in finding diamonds once the gold is carefully refined. This is the case here. Since it covers such a wide range, only a statement of range will suffice. It covers tricks in working with copper gaskets to the design and construction of ion guns, and that’s only an attempt at describing the range. The book contains enough clear and well thought out drawings to be of general use in making the solution to a problem understood, but it will not give you a fully designed solution. This is no problem since a one-size-fits-all design is almost never possible. In short, you still have to read, study, understand, and think. This book should be on the shelf of any vacuum practitioner who is constantly working on the experimental edge. It should also be available to anyone attempting to further understand vacuum technology than is often covered in teaching or textbooks. It’s as practical and useful as you will allow it to be. |
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