Surface coatings is a rapidly developing field of science and technology that offers new methods and techniques to control friction and wear. New coating types are continually being developed and the potential applications in different industrial fields are ever growing, ranging from machine components and consumer products to medical instruments and prostheses.The book provides an extensive review of the latest technology in the field, addressing physical and chemical vapour deposition, the tribological mechanisms resulting in reduced friction and wear, the tribological properties of coatings, and coating characterization and performance evaluation techniques. Eleven different cases are examined in close detail to demonstrate the improvement of tribological properties.This second edition is still the only monograph in the field to give a holistic view of the subject and presents all aspects, including data as well as mechanisms, interactions and understanding which are vital for the practical application of coatings. It will be a valuable resource for students, academics and industry professionals seeking to understand the latest tribological developments, from theory to practice. * An extensive review of the latest developments in the field of surface coatings* Presents both theory and practical applications* Includes a guide for selecting coatings