The interactions of molecules, solid particles, gas bubbles, liquid droplets, and solid surfaces in complex fluids play a vital role in engineering processes. These interactions, which occur at the molecular level, nanoscale, and microscale, significantly influence and determine the macroscopic performance and efficiency of related engineering processes. This issue covers typical intermolecular and surface interactions involved in various engineering processes as well as nanomechanical techniques such as atomic force microscopy and surface forces apparatus for quantifying the interaction forces of molecules and surfaces in complex fluids. Recent progress in characterizing the intermolecular and surface interactions in several engineering systems is reviewed, including mineral flotation, petroleum engineering, wastewater treatment, and energy-storage materials. The correlation of these fundamental interaction mechanisms with practical applications in resolving engineering challenges and the perspectives of the research field are also discussed.
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