Theoretical research will be done on surface processes for systems out of equilibrium, such as surface reaction with fresh feed (catalysis), irreversible adsorption on surfaces, and irreversible growth processes. The goal of the research is to develop a fundamental understanding of the nature of these irreversible systems, to elucidate the relation of the steady-state behavior with equilibrium states, and to explore the unusual kinetic phase transitions that these systems display. This understanding will lead to improved modeling and design of actual catalytic systems. %%% This research involves a studies of a number of irreversible systems. Included are models to help understand catalytic reactions of importance to the automotive and chemical industries and to help understand growth phenomena which occur as thin films, for instance, are deposited during molecular beam epitaxy.
