Surface dynamics of glasses

Two challenging scientific disciplines, i.e., the physics of glasses [Anderson, Science 267, 1615 (1995); Kennedy and Norman, 309, 75 (2005)] interface chemistry [Sanders, 125 Questions: Exploration Discovery (Science/AAAS, 2021); Yates Campbell, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 108, 911 (2011)], converge in research on dynamics glass surfaces. In recent decades, studies have revealed that exhibit profound alterations their within nanometers interfaces. Rather, at free surfaces glassy materials with arrested bulk dynamics, a highly mobile ultrathin layer is present, wherein molecular mobility much faster than bulk. Enhanced surface has become an important concept intrinsic universal to various categories (e.g., molecular, metallic, polymeric glasses), thus having technological implications for processing applications glasses. This review provides comprehensive summary historical evolution concept, characterization, theoretical modeling, unique features Additionally, this paper also illustrates potential advantages incorporating into designing improved extraordinary properties. We hope article will contribute current understanding materials.