Electronic Book Project: The fundamentals of interfacial engineering

Electronic Book Project focuses on the creation of interactive instructional modules that enhance understanding of the principles of interfacial engineering. Modules developed thus far discuss amphiphilic assembly (micelles, bilayers, etc.) intermolecular forces and surface tension. Modules under development cover colloids, thin films, and polymers. The majority of instructional software developed for engineering curricula consists of supplemental material aimed at undergraduates. Our modules, however, comprise a self-contained electronic book intended for advanced undergraduates and graduate students. We also anticipate that they will be used extensively by practicing engineers and scientists. Users can choose the amount and kind of detail they wish to pursue. A budding theoretician who is interested in the derivation of the Derjaguin approximation can jump to the theoretical track for an explanation. On the other hand, an engineer who wishes to explore the characterization of micelles will find that information in the experimental track. We have used these modules in classes and surveyed the responses of the students, which were positive. We have also demonstrated them to the Center's industrial partners, and have received many requests for copies.