In recent years considerable progress has been made in the development of porous materials for, among others, catalysis, environmental protection, nano-engineering, pharmaceuticals and separation technology. In addition, new procedures have been put forward for the design and characterization of model pore structures. This multi-authored reference covers in considerable detail the classification, synthesis, characterization and application of a wide range of porous materials, including carbons, oxides, polymers and zeolites. Specialists in such fields as surface and colloid science, advanced materials and membrane technology will use and appreciate this information source in their daily work. Other scientists and technologists will turn to individual chapters to find the latest, authoritative reviews. Deserves to be found in every library.