Surface roughness and its measurement methods - Analytical review
Tetiana Ruzova, Bahram Haddadi
Abstract
Surface roughness is vital for material interaction, affecting friction, adhesion, heat transfer, aerodynamics, corrosion resistance, biocompatibility. Evaluating roughness is crucial for quality control. However, traditional (contact) methods pose risks, while non-contact methods, despite their accuracy, encounter challenges due to cost and complexity. Continued research in roughness measurement methods will enhance product quality management and ensure stable functioning of production processes. This will contribute to the advancement of new strategies for studying and predicting material properties and technical system behaviors. This review discusses the primary aspects of surface microgeometry and ways of its modelling, as well as modern technologies and tools for surface topography assessment, their strengths, weaknesses and application features. • Surface roughness critically affects material interactions at micro- and nanoscales. • Stylus, optical, and ultrasonic methods are essential in roughness assessment. • Advanced techniques like particle beams and microscopy assess molecular roughness. • In practical applications simple and cost-effective roughness methods are preferred. • Future studies should adapt measurement techniques for diverse operating scenarios.