Book excerpt: This book covers a wide range of topics that address the main areas of interest to scientists, engineers, and students concerned with the synthesis, characterization and applications of nanomaterials. Development techniques, properties, and examples of industrial applications are all widely represented as they apply to various nanostructured materials including nanocomposites and multilayered nanometric coatings. The book also illustrates a wide range of powerful methods of nanomaterial/nanostructure synthesis such as microwave-assisted methods, pulsed electrodeposition, ion beams, or glancing angle deposition. Techniques for the encapsulation and functionalization of nanoparticles, as well as the adhesion and mechanical characterization of nanostructured thin films, are also described and discussed. It is to be recommended to anyone working in the field of nanomaterials, especially in connection with the functionalization and engineering of surfaces.