Recently, many nations along with private shipbuilders have begun developing large maritime vessels using composite materials structurally. Concurrently, the US Navy has a need for research on bonded metal-composite joints. For these reasons, a literature review was conducted to establish a fundamental knowledge base of adhesive bonding and failure theories along with surface cleaning and engineering processes that would be valuable for metal-composite joint designs. It is believed that by understanding bonding and failure fundamentals, optimal surface characteristics can be targeted. Furthermore, by knowing the available cleaning and surface engineering processes, in conjunction with understanding their resulting surface topographies and compositions, creative and novel joints can be designed. This report provides the results of the literature review performed, which serves as a platform for future research aimed at optimizing bonded joints for use in naval applications.