The Mechanical Theory of Adhesion—Changing Perceptions 1925-1991

Abstract

The changing fortunes of the mechanical theory of adhesion are traced from McBain and Hopkin's work in the 1920s to that of Venables in the 1970s and 1980s. Some comments are made on the factors which were associated with changes, during the period surveyed, in the accepted view of the importance of the theory.

Key Words:

• historical context of mechanical adhesion theories
• philosophy of science
• interlocking hypotheses
• objectivity of theory
• rationality of change in science
• roughness and adhesion
• anodising
• aluminium
• titanium