INDEX phase transformation

In order to discuss phase transformations in this chapter and chemical reactions in the next chapter, we will need to develop the thermodynamics of open systems. In open systems, the number of moles of the various components of the system can change and the thermodynamic fimctions depend on the numbers of moles of these components, as well as on thermodynamic variables. For example, the natural variables for U become (/(.S, V, n, ), where the index i ranges over the components of the system. 

While in volumes 180 and 181 of this series several basic aspects of morphology, inter-phase structure and disorder were addressed, in the present volume, molecular interactions, modeling, phase transformation and crystallization kinetics are considered (see the subject index including keywords from volumes 180 and 181 at the end of the book). Needless to say, in spite of substantial success over 60 years or more we are still far from having a complete and unambiguous picture of polymer crystallization. We firmly believe that a fruitful approach to such a complex problem requires one to give way to many different and sometimes conflicting viewpoints, as we have attempted to do in these volumes. We do hope that they are not only a time-capsule left for... 

AVhile the Series is primarily classified on the basis of types of materials and their processing modes, some volumes will focus on particular groups of applications (Nuclear Materials, Biomedical Materials), and others on specific categories of properties (Phase Transformations, Characterization, Plastic Deformation and Fracture). Different aspects of the same topic are often treated in two or more volumes, and certain topics are treated in connection with a particular material (e.g., corrosion in one of the chapters on steel, and adhesion in one of the polymer volumes). Note, however, that corrosion is now to receive its own dedicated volume, number 19. Special care has been taken by the Editors to ensure extensive cross-references both within and between volumes, insofar as is feasible. A Cumulative Index volume will be published upon completion of the Series to enhance its usefulness as a whole. 

---