A new mathematical model for the flow field near a dynamic contact line is presented in this paper. The new model takes into consideration the existence of unbalanced forces at the fluid-fluid interface. These forces could be caused by the presence of surface tension gradients, surface deformation or body forces such as London-var der Waals forces, unretarded London-var der Waals forces, electrostatic double-layer forces, etc. Inertia effects on the moving contact line is also studied. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.