A general contact model for rough surfaces based on the incremental concept.

It is now commonly accepted that real contact area rises linearly with increasing normal load for the contact of rough solids. However, the coefficient of proportionality is distinct in various models and simulations. This study advances a general method to determine the area-load proportionality based on the incremental contact concept. A pair of loose bounds on the coefficient of proportionality for general Gaussian random rough surfaces and a tight one working in the thermodynamic limit are derived. The resultant predictions are in accord with numerical results presented in literature. The current study might offer some deep insight into the role of surface morphologies in contact of rough elastic solids. [Display omitted] • An incremental contact model is proposed for the contact of rough elastic solids. • The role of asperity shape in contact deformation is studied. • Bounds on the proportionality between contact area and normal load are derived for various rough surfaces. • The applicability of the current model is verified by comparisons with simulation results in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]