These proceedings focus on the scientific issues related to surface engineering phenomena in synthesis, characterization, and application for a variety of materials. A multidisciplinary discussion on surface-related phenomena by which materials performance may be enhanced through engineered interface and surface modification technologies, this volume covers such topics as: PVD and CVD processes; nanostructured and nanoparticles synthesis; thermal barrier coatings; biomedical coatings; functional coatings for electronic, optical, and magnetic applications; surface modification by plasma, ion, and laser beam techniques; direct fabricated materials; coatings for space, automobile, and environmental industries; corrosion and oxidation resistance coatings; modeling; mechanical and tribological properties; interface properties and adhesion; advanced surface investigation techniques; and ultrahard coatings. From the 2005 TMS Annual Meeting held in San Francisco, California, February 13 - 17, 2005.