Since J.W. Gibbs in 1878 succeeded comprehensively in establishing the basic principles for an understanding of equilibria in heterogeneous systems, numer ous books concerning constitution diagrams have been written, some of them providing a formal treatment of phase equilibria down to the small detail. The purpose of the present book is to provide an introduction to the practical ap plications of phase diagrams. In the first instance it is intended for students of chemistry, metallurgy, mineralogy and materials science, but also for engineers and students of science and engineering disciplines concerned with materials. To facilitate the start of an involvement with heterogeneous equilibria, reactions and dynamic equilibria will be treated first, since these are familiar to chemists and metallurgists. Of course, a description of phase equilibria is not possible without a mini mum of formalism. The formalistic description, however, will be made lighter by clear explanations of experimental methods used to determine the constitu tion of a system, by application examples, as well as by discussing realistic cas es from chemistry, metallurgy, materials science and mineralogy. By this, the ne cessity of the knowledge of phase diagrams can be shown. On the other hand a practical exercise is possible.
This graduate-level textbook provides an introduction to the practical application of phase diagrams. It is intended for students and researchers in chemistry, metallurgy, mineralogy, and materials science as well as in engineering and physics. Heterogeneous equilibria are described by a minimum of theory illustrated by practical examples and realistic case discussions from the different fields of application. The treatment of the physical and energetic background of phase equilibria leads to the discussion of the thermodynamics of mixtures and the correlation between energetics and composition. Thus, tools for the prediction of energetic, structural, and physical quantities are provided. The authors treat the nucleation of phase transitions, the production and stability of technologically important metastable phases, and metallic glasses. Furthermore, the text also concisely presents the thermodynamics and composition of polymer systems.
From the reviews :
"This graduate textbook introduces the practical application of phase diagrams for students and researchers in materials science, chemistry, and mineralogy, as well as engineering and physics. Heterogeneous equilibria are illustrated by practical examples in different application fields, while theory is kept to a minimum. An emphasis is placed on providing tools for predicting energetic, structural, and physical quantities." (Materials Today)
"Predel and colleagues offer a good resource for students and professionals who wish to learn more about the practical aspects of phase equilibria ? . Unlike most other books on the subject, this practical introduction provides detailed, yet remarkably clear, description of physical phenomena ? . The descriptions are enhanced with more than 250 phase diagrams, micrographs, and other illustrations involving both real and idealized systems. ? Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals in materials-related fields." (D.D. Edwards, CHOICE, Vol. 42 (10), June, 2005)
