In 2001 Wyn Roberts celebrated both his 70th birthday and 50 years of working in surface science, to use the term "surface science" in its broadest meaning. This book aims to mark the anniversary with a contribution of lasting value, something more than the usual festschrift issue of a relevant journal. The book is divided into three sections: Surface Science, Model Catalysts and Catalysis, topics in which Wyn has always had interests. The authors for each chapter were chosen from some of the many eminent scientists who have worked with Wyn in various ways and are all internationally acknowledged as leaders in their field. The authors have produced authoritative reviews of their own specialties which together result in a book with an unrivalled combination of breadth and depth exploring the most recent developments in surface chemistry and catalysis.

"This excellent book discusses experimental methods and the latest developments in three areas of research - heterogeneous catalysis, surface chemistry, and the chemisry of model catalysts... It commemorates the work of Wyn Roberts... It starts by giving the reader an outstandingly goo up-to-date overview of how methods and concepts from surface chemistry can be used... [...] This part on techniques is often enlivened by personal anecdotes, and the style is refreshing and absorbin. [...] Concisely and informatively, the authors introduce the theoretical models that can be used to gain an understanding of catalytic processes in model systems...we learn interesting details about the activation of methane on a ruthenium surface. ...the authors have succeeded in giving a concise and highly informative treatment of important selected aspects. ...presents an up-to-date and wide-ranging overview of a variety of different facets of the subject. It can be recommended for everyone wishing to enter this fascinating field, and also for those who wish to look beyond the rim of their own special area of research."
(Angewandte Chemie, 42 (2003)