In adhesive bonding the epoxy is only one part of the equation. Each substrate that is being adhered to is often as important as the adhesive selection. Physical properties such as bond strength, conductivity, and bond reliability all hinge on the interface between substrate and adhesive. The adhesive-substrate interface is a sensitive equilibrium that can be upset by even the slightest contaminants. In preparing a surface for adhesive bonding users can increase reliability and productivity by optimizing the substrate's ability to accept the adhesive.