Latest developments in the theory and applications of stray light and scatter

Surface characterization has a vital importance in many fields of research and technology. In the recent years, increasing efforts have been made in order to use light scattering rather than classical optical and mechanical tools for the purpose of characterization. After a brief recall on the classical optical means, a presentation of recent achievements in the field of characterization from surface scattering analysis will be made. Two kinds of surfaces and two kinds of characterizations will be distinguished.