1. Introduction

1.1 Why do we need to characterize surface microgeometry?

All objects, and in particular the components of industrial products, have a variety of surfaces, each with an associated function ranging from the simple limitation of the material to the creation of a dynamic seal, the resistance of a coating or the biocompatibility of a medical prosthesis, for example.

The microgeometry of the surface often plays a decisive role in its ability to satisfy the expected function.

For example, at the interfaces between the parts of an assembly with relative movement, the various stress and friction phenomena continually evolve until the loss of performance that will lead to the deficiency of the mechanism.

Controlling the...