Chemistry and Materials Science

This book presents a summary of the topic of supercooling during crystallization in condensed films. While recent findings are mainly published in English, the foundational classical results were originally published in Russian, with limited accessibility to general readers. The present work is based on a 2019 Ukrainian monograph, "Temperature Stability of the Supercooled Liquid Phase in Condensed Films," which has been extensively revised and expanded.

The book includes a detailed analysis of the thermodynamics of supercooled fluids, with updated and expanded sections. Additionally, new results on the supercooling of indium-lead (In-Pb) alloys in contact with amorphous molybdenum and fusible metals in contact with nanocrystalline layers are presented. These layers occupy a middle ground between amorphous (carbon, molybdenum, as-deposited germanium films) and polycrystalline (copper, silver, aluminum) substrates. The book gives particular attention to the peculiarities of contracted geometry conditions, which are natural for multilayered structures and can occur through fusible component segregation at grain boundaries.

The analysis of new data has prompted a rethinking of the role of the more refractory layer's microstructure on the crystallization processes of metastable melts. The book includes a thorough discussion of these findings, highlighting the crucial role of the microstructure in the crystallization process. This book is a valuable resource for researchers and students interested in crystallization in thin-film metallic systems. This comprehensive study provides a detailed and authoritative analysis of the thermodynamics of supercooled fluids, and the impact of microstructure on the crystallization processes of metastable melts, making it an essential addition to any academic library.

This book follows up the debate on the future of science and technology at the Curious2022 – Future Insight Conference, the second event in this conference series initiated on the occasion of Merck’s 350th anniversary. In the chapters, some of the world’s top scientists, managers and entrepreneurs explore breakthrough technologies and how they can be applied to make a better world for humanity.

The book begins with an introduction to the vision of the conference “United by science for a better tomorrow” and the impacts caused by the pandemic, highlighting the importance of gathering like-minded people to discuss and support the advancement of science and technology for the benefit of humanity. In the first part of the book, readers will also find a chapter written by the Executive Board of Merck KGaA discussing the importance of curiosity for innovation and an overview of the company’s contribution in the areas of life sciences, healthcare andelectronics forward-moving the scientific discovery. The second part of the book offers insights of some of the scientific topics discussed at the conference, and particular attention is given to new therapies and sustainability. In the final part of the book, readers will find some thoughts on ethical principles guiding our application of science and technology to create a bright future for humanity, and diverse perspectives on topics such as health, life sciences, nutrition, material sciences, digitalization, AI, energy, mobility, space flight, robotics, the secrets of the human mind and new ways of working together.

Given its interdisciplinary appeal, the book will inspire curiosity in a wide readership, from scholars and researchers to professionals with an interest in exploring the future of science and technology, solving the problems of today, and paving the way for a better tomorrow.

Chapters “From a 350th Anniversary to a Global Movement: United by Science for a Better Tomorrow” and “ Advancing Human Progress as a Twenty-First-Century Science and Technology Pioneer” are available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

The book is a comprehensive exploration of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC), addressing key aspects from its definition and historical relevance to its practical applications and environmental considerations. 

Throughout its sections, the reader will gain an understanding of the fundamental principles of HTC, including the chemical reactions involved and the catalysts used. In addition, the book provides a comprehensive overview of the various types of waste that can be utilized in the process, from organic sources to industrial and municipal solid wastes. Highlighting the importance in various industries and research areas, case studies illustrating successful applications are presented. A practical perspective is also provided, including exercises for students, exploring laboratory techniques and experiments related to hydrocarbonization. 

In addition, its focus on research and innovation, addressing current trends and emerging technologies, positions this book as a valuable source for students, researchers, and professionals interested in exploring and developing this field with an emphasis on its potential impact on energy, the environment, and sustainability. The conclusion provides a concise summary of key concepts, a discussion of the future of hydrocarbonization, and an encouragement for students to venture into research in this promising field.

This second edition showcases groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications that transform over 20 years of satellite observations from the GRACE and GRACE-FO missions into a comprehensive 50-year hydrological dataset for Africa’s Lake Victoria Basin (LVB). This innovative approach will unlock unprecedented understanding of critical water challenges that have bedevilled the lake basin due to data scarcity. The book unravels the mysterious 2018–2019 surge in lake water levels, the disruptive floating islands affecting hydropower and livelihoods, and the complex groundwater dynamics beneath the surface. By combining cutting-edge AI with remote sensing and socio-economic analysis, this interdisciplinary study will reveal how natural climate variability and human activities jointly influence water security, flood-drought cycles, agriculture, and regional economies. It offers actionable insights for climate scientists, water resource managers, engineers, and policymakers dedicated to Africa’s sustainable development.

Praised by Professor C.K. Shum of The Ohio State University as “a transformative interdisciplinary study that redefines our understanding of Africa’s largest lake system,” this edition is essential for anyone seeking to harness technology for impactful environmental management and unlock the future of water resource management—where AI meets real-world solutions.

This book presents a critical review of the analytical methods used for the measurement of harmful and potentially harmful compounds (HPHC) in tobacco and nicotine-related products. In the first chapter of the book, a presentation of the main types of tobacco products is introduced, including cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, little filter cigars, dissolvable tobacco products, hookah (shisha or waterpipe), nicotine gels, pipe tobacco products, roll your own, smokeless tobacco products, such as dip, snuff, snus, and chewing tobacco and E-Cigarettes, vapes, and other electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). In the second and main part of the book, the analytical methods for the compounds in the established list from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of HPHC are discussed. For example, in cigarette smoke, specific discussions related to the analytical methods for nicotine, acetaldehyde, acrolein, acrylonitrile, aromatic amines, ammonia, benzene, benzo[a]pyrene, 1,3-butadiene, carbon monoxide, crotonaldehyde, formaldehyde, isoprene, TSNA’s, and toluene are presented. Specific analytical methods for the analysis of HPHC in ENDS are also included. Various other analytical methods used for all the 93 HPHC in the established list by FDA for tobacco products and tobacco smoke are presented. The book will be useful to scientists working in the industry as well as students and researchers interested in the area.

This book presents select, peer-reviewed proceedings of the 6th International Polymeric Composites Symposium and Workshops. The papers included here focus on the recent advancements in polymeric composite materials, focusing on their production, usage, and development. Topics covered in this book include innovative research and technological breakthroughs addressing contemporary challenges, sustainable practices, and future opportunities in the field. Special focus has been given to fostering collaboration between academia and industry to enhance the practical application of polymeric composites in solving real-world problems. This book explore research areas, including advanced material design, functional properties, manufacturing techniques, durability, and environmental considerations. This book serves as an invaluable resource for academics, researchers, industry professionals, and students interested in the evolving landscape of polymeric composites.