In an attempt to meet the demand for new ultra-high strength materials, the processing of novel material configurations with unique microstructure is being explored in systems which are further and further from equilibrium. One such class of emerging materials is the so-called nanophased or nanostructured materials. This class of materials includes metals and alloys, ceramics, and polymers characterized by controlled ultra-fine microstructural features in the form oflayered, fibrous, or phase and grain distribution. While it is clear that these materials are in an early stage of development, there is now a sufficient body of literature to fuel discussion of how the mechanical properties and deformation behavior can be controlled through control of the microstructure. This NATO-Advanced Study Institute was convened in order to assess our current state of knowledge in the field of mechanical properties and deformation behavior in materials with ultra fine microstructure, to identify opportunities and needs for further research, and to identify the potential for technological applications. The Institute was the first international scientific meeting devoted to a discussion on the mechanical properties and deformation behavior of materials having grain sizes down to a few nanometers. Included in these discussions were the topics of superplasticity, tribology, and the supermodulus effect. Lectures were also presented which covered a variety of other themes including synthesis, characterization, thermodynamic stability, and general physical properties.

Understanding the composition and structure of a surface is essential in understanding its frictional (Tribological) properties. This volume in the Materials Characterization series will focus on surface characterization, including roughness, hardness, coating thickness and bond strength. Advanced characterization methods are also covered for applications in magnetic recording media, rolling contact bearings and other high-tech systems. -- Reviews major physical principles of tribology, including adhesion, friction, abrasion and surface boundary conditions -- Special section on surface characterization of magnetic recording surfaces -- Concise summaries of major characterization technologies for tribological materials, including SEM, Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Static Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy

Mechanisms of wear, friction and lubrication are comprehensively described in an accessible manner that is designed to be helpful to non-specialists. The control of wear is given extensive treatment with a thorough discussion of lubricant additives, solid lubricants and surface coatings. The effectiveness of coatings in suppressing specific forms of wear is described together with the methods of coating deposition. More than 1000 references are provided to give the reader access to more specialized information if required.

Friction and Wear of Materials Second Edition Written by one of the world’s foremost authorities on friction, this classic book offers a lucid presentation of the theory of mechanical surface interactions as it applies to friction, wear, adhesion, and boundary lubrication. To aid engineers in design decisions, Friction and Wear of Materials evaluates the properties of materials which, under specified conditions, cause one material to function better as a bearing material than another. Featured also are thorough treatments of lubricants and the sizes and shapes of wear particles. This updated Second Edition includes new material on erosive wear, impact wear, and friction. Professor Rabinowicz’s book will be especially welcomed by mechanical and design engineers, surface scientists, tribologists and others who design, produce and operate products, machines and equipment which involve friction and its effects.