Surfactants, polymers, and nanoparticles can be engineered to exert active control over a wide variety of interfacial systems, however the mechanisms by which this occurs are still only partially understood. For example, complexation, association, and reaction in these materials at fluid-fluid interfaces leads to the formation of networks which confer properties such as mechanical rigidity that are outside the description provided by equilibrium surface thermodynamics. We describe experimental approaches and accompanying frameworks based on two-dimensional continuum mechanics to characterize the intrinsic properties of these systems and discuss applications of smart interfaces in tissue engineering, dispersion stabilization, and adhesion modification.

Join Dr. Ferri as he shares his research and the future of this important field.