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PLASMA FACING COMPONENTS SYSTEMS GROUP One of the most challenging areas for Fusion Power is the development of plasma-facing systems that can withstand high surface heat and particle fluxes while, at the same time, exhibiting desirable safety and environmental features. The Advanced Limiter-divertor Plasma-facing Systems (ALPS) program was established to investigate advanced systems as part of the enabling technology section of the U.S. Fusion Energy Sciences Program. The program is also part of the Virtual Laboratory for Technology (VLT) (http://vlt.ucsd.edu/). The ALPS program has extended its mission to encompass all plasma/material interaction issues associated with fusion science and technology. The Plasma Facing Components (PFC) group works on both conventional PFC topics (e.g., hydrocarbon erosion, solid plasma-facing components, etc...) and advanced concepts included in continuing ALPS efforts (e.g., thin-film lithium coatings, liquid-metal PFCs, etc...).  The group is directed by the Plasma Facing Components Steering Committee (PFC-SC) chaired by Dr. Jeffrey N. Brooks at Argonne National Laboratory. The chair and members of the committee guide the scope and direction of research within the PFC program. Gene Nardella is the Department of Energy (DOE) ex-officio member. Two primary goals of the PFC program: Establish the scientific and technological base for innovative plasma-facing systems that can significantly advance fusion science and improve the prospect for fusion as an energy source. Provide advanced plasma-facing systems and technology to the plasma physics community to enhance the performance and understanding of plasmas in existing and near-term devices.