An experimental study of micron-sized particle deposition on flat surfaces is presented, aimed at delineating the effects of hydrodynamic and physicochemical interactions on. particle transport and attachment efficiency, and at obtaining a better understanding of the particle sticking probability, a concept employed in modelling particulate fouling of industrial heat exchangers. Dilute particle suspensions are employed in a parallel-plate-laminar-flow channel, and hydrodynamic and physicochemical conditions are systematically varied. Deposition rates are determined by optical microscopy and image analysis techniques. It is observed that if gravity forces are present (in a horizontal channel) they control deposition at low wall shear stresses. As the hydrodynamic wall shear stress increases particle deposition rates are significantly reduced due to the effect of hydrodynamic lift or drag forces inhibiting transport or attachment. In general, for hydrodynamic conditions similar to those encountered in industrial heat exchangers, it appears that the particle sticking probability is significantly lower than unity. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.