Phase Transformation and Diffusion

The basic purpose of all research in materials science and technology is to tailor the properties of materials to suit specific applications, phase transformations are the natural key to the fine-tuning of the structural, mechanical and corrosion properties. A basic understanding of the kinetics and mechanisms of phase transformation is therefore of vital importance. Apart from a few cases involving crystallographic martensitic transformations, all phase transformations are mediated by diffusion. Thus, proper control and understanding of the process of diffusion during nucleation, growth, oxidation, sintering, etc are essential for optimising the properties of materials to meet specific needs. This importance of this topic is reflected by this special-topic volume on, Phase Transformation and Diffusion Researchers and scientists from both academia and industry made important contributions to the volume, thus making it an excellent introduction to, and review of, the subject.