Many chemical reactions and chemical processes take place on surfaces or within boundary layers. In order to understand this, the layers must be analyzed in as much detail as possible. We show, how Empa examines microstructures down to the atomic level, using self-designed "super-microscopes" – and how these scientific results lead to the construction of new surfaces.

Besides fundamental research Empa regularily tackles practical problems: How come, that an electrical threewheeler used for postal delivery suffers spontaneous self-combustion during the night? Empa scientists analyzed the problem and found a solution.

And also in this issue: Shower now, ventilate later: a new moisture buffering plaster by Empa. --- Mercury in energy-saving lamps – a sword of damocles?