Book excerpt: This innovative reference collects state-of-the-art procedures for the construction and design of nanoparticles and porous material while suggesting appropriate areas of application. Presenting both synthesis and characterization protocols, Surfaces of Nanoparticles and Porous Materials contains over 3000 references, tables, equations, drawings, and photographs. It examines the thermodynamics and kinetics of adsorption involving organic and inorganic liquids, solids, and gaseous media.. Topics include characterization, transport processes, diffusion, and the adsorption of heavy metals, ions, proteins, and pharmaceutical organics.