Multifractal analysis of metallic surface structure changes during mechanical treatment

The interrelationship between the mechanical properties of molybdenum wires ann their surface defect statistics is discussed on the basis of an informational-theoretical interpretation of multifractal formalism? which enables the introduction of indices relating to the degree of order and uniformity of defect structures. A simple practical algorithm of multifractal parameterisation of plane structures is described. The indices calculated are related to the mechanical properties measured. A very good linear correlation between uniformity index ann mechanical properties is obtained. The deviations of the index corresponding to the degree order from the linear correlation with mechanical properties is explained by the influence of a step by, step surface treatment. The indices of uniformity and degree of order together with the relative maximum surface defect size, provide additional information about the surface roughness and their use gives extra opportunities for optimisation of the surface treatment.