Various potential methods and techniques for modifying surfaces to make themless sensitive to contamination have been researched for various applicationsbefore, to varying degrees of success. These are discussed in detail to potentiallyapply them in the automotive sector, to face the increasing technical cleanlinessrequirements, that are linked to more complexity in design and electrification. TheTheoretical background in dust adhesion and contact mechanics is discussed, withdevelopments in analytical and numerical methods highlighted. Then, someexamples of the surfaces in question are presented, and their topographiesmeasured.

Potential techniques are identified from previous experimental research in otherfields, and their applicability and feasibility are discussed within the limits ofavailable data, then an attempt at a structured approach for choosing candidatesfor further experimental testing on a case by case basis is laid out, and suggestionsfor more comprehensive research into effective parameters and analytical methodsare made.