A Century of Surface Science and Catalysis I

This session will present a perspective of surface science and catalysis for the past 100 years. In the past century there has been a profound change in our perspective and understanding of catalysts. Many of these changes are based on the evolution and impact of surface science to the field of catalysis. The importance of the connection between surface science and catalysis is reflected in the recent Nobel prize received by Dr. Ertl for his ultra-high vacuum surface science work probing the reactions at surfaces in CO oxidation and ammonia synthesis. This session will bring the perspective of a range of respected researchers in the field of surface science and catalysis to discuss the past, present, and future of this field.