ABSTRACT
Disciplines that specialize in the analysis of the surfaces of materials have evolved in response to the recognition of the importance of surface characteristics, with most of the development occurring since about 1970. Surface analysis has contributed to the understanding of materials, leading to process changes and control of surface traits that have resulted in improvements in a signi©cant number of industries. ¢e successes of many processes are dependent on engineering the characteristics of the surfaces, and analyzing the surfaces (accurately measuring these characteristics) is an integral part of the engineering process.
