Synopses & Reviews
Physical Properties of Quasicrystals presents an up-to-date introduction to the field of quasicrystals, a new form of matter which was discovered only in 1984. The field is inspected from an experimental point of view and the results are interpreted within the framework of the existing theoretical models. The book discusses our current understanding of the unusual physical properties of quasicrystals, as well as highlighting the challenges associated with the physical interpretation of the properties of these complex and fascinating materials. The book is written by a team of active researchers and conveys the sense of an excitement associated with research in a rapidly developing area of new alloys. A wealth of measured experimental data is presented and important information is given in a convenient tabular form. Although the book is aimed at a broad audience interested in the intriguing physical properties of these novel alloys, it will be of general use both to long-time workers in the field and uninitiated graduate students.
Synopsis
Quasicrystals are a new form of the solid state which differ from the other two known forms, crystalline and amorphous, by possesing a new type of long-range translational order, called quasiperiodicty, and a noncrystallographic orientational order. This book provides an up-to-date description of the unusual physical properties of these new materials. Emphasis is placed on the experimental results, which are compared with those of the corresponding crystalline and amorphous systems and discussed in terms of modern theoretical models. Written by leading authorities in the field, the book will be of great use both to experienced workers in the field and to uninitiated graduate students.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction, 2. Metallurgy of Quasicrystals, 3. Quasicrystallography, 4. Experimental Studies of the Crystal Structure, 5. Electronic Transport Properties - Experimental Results, 6. Theory of the Electronic Structure, 7. Elementary Excitations in Quasicrystals, 8. Spectroscopic Studies of the Electronic Structure, 9. Magnetic Properties, 10. Structural and Physical Properties Studied with Local Probes, 11. Surface Properties, 12. Mechanical Properties, 13. Towards Industrial Applications.