ABSTRACT
A solid surface, or more exactly a solid-gas or solid-liquid interface, has a complex structure and complex properties depending on the nature of the solids, the method of surface preparation, and the interaction between the surface and the environment. Properties of solid surfaces are crucial to surface interaction because surface properties affect real area of contact, friction, wear, and lubrication. In addition to tribological functions, surface properties are important in other applications, such as optical, electrical and thermal performance, painting, and appearance.
