The adhesion and surface energy of elastic solids

An equilibrium theory of adhesion between elastic solids is developed. Adhesion is shown to depend on the interfacial surface energy and on the geometry and elastic constants of the adherent bodies. The theory is used to interpret the well-known adhesion tests - the pull-off, peel and scratch tests - and the spontaneous peeling of thin films is discussed. Experiments on contacts between Perspex and gelatine surfaces support the analysis.