Abstract: In a method of determining the adhesion properties of at least two materials to one another at least one material is charged with an absorbate and a critical parameter is determined at which the materials undergo at least partial, in particular substantially complete, detachment from one another. Films/coatings on substrates are investigated with preference. By evaluating the results it is possible, for example, to give a quantitative determination of adhesion energies. This allows predictions about the adhesion of different materials to/on one another.