Bücher der Reihe Nato Science Partnership Subseries: 3

Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on `Wide Band Gap Electronic Materials -- Diamond, Aluminum Nitride and Boron Nitride', Minsk, Belarus, May 4--6, 1994

Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Research Workshop, Debrecen, Hungary, August 29--September 1, 1994

A summary of recent developments in theoretical and experimental studies of fluctuation effects in itinerant electron magnets, focusing on novel physical phenomena: soft-mode spin fluctuations and zero-point effects, strong spin anharmonicity, magnetic frustrations in metals, fluctuation effects in Invar alloys and low-dimensional systems. All of these may be important for novel high-technology applications.

A unique selection of papers on the most recent progress in the modelling of biological molecules containing metal ions. New approaches and techniques in this field are allowing researchers to discuss structures, electronic properties and reaction mechanisms of metalloproteins on the basis of computational studies. The book discusses different approaches in the development of new force fields and their application to the computation of the structures, electronic properties and dynamics of bioinorganic compounds as well as quantum mechanical and integrated QM/MM methods for understanding the function of metalloenzymes and the calculation of electrostatic interactions.

Microwave Physics and Techniques discusses the modelling and application of nonlinear microwave circuits and the problems of microwave electrodynamics and applications of magnetic and high Tc superconductor structures. Aspects of advanced methods for the structural investigation of materials and of MW remote sensing are also considered. The dual focus on both HTSC MW device physics and MW excitation in ferrites and magnetic films will foster the interaction of specialists in these different fields.

Recent advances in our understanding of complex composite media, especially chiral media for microwave applications, suggest the feasibility of creating novel materials with unusual properties and the possibility of constructing new microwave devices using such materials. The emphasis of the book is on bi-anisotropic materials, whose most interesting feature is the magnetoelectric interaction of the fields. The materials are expected to supply useful applications in radar technology, aerospace, microwave engineering, manufacturing technology, etc., such as absorbers for low-reflectivity shields, reciprocal phase shifters, polarization transformers. The first experiments with artificial bi-anisotropic media have been successfully carried out.

A unique combination of the basic science and fundamental aspects of joints and interfaces with the engineering aspects of the subject. Contributors include researchers drawn from several Eastern European countries. Topics addressed include processing, interfacial reactions, graded joints, residual stress measurement and analysis, and failure and deformation. Audience: Academic and industrial researchers and ceramic manufacturers interested in understanding the current state of the art in joining.

An expert exposition of the structural and mechanical properties of light alloys and composites, bridging the gap between scientists and industrial engineers in its consideration of advanced light materials, their structure, properties, technology and application. Includes basic problems of alloy constitution and phase transformations. The aluminium alloys are the main topic of the book, consideration being given to their properties, casting technology, thermomechanical treatment and structure. Attention is also given to the magnesium alloys, particularly those having rare earth metal constituents. Both commercial titanium alloys and intermetallic compounds are discussed, as are metallic composites. The latest engineering techniques are discussed in both theoretical and practical terms.

Light alkanes tend to be resistant to many forms of activation. The horizontal approach of the present book covers homogeneous, heterogeneous and biological catalysis, thus allowing readers to gain an awareness of progress and ideas in research areas different from their own. The book contains both general chapters, giving an overview of the subject, and specialised contributions that deal with the details and state of the art. A specialist report is also included which gives a critical insight into current progress and discusses future prospects and major challenges. Audience: Newcomers and senior researchers in the field of alkane activation. The mixed theoretical and practical approach will be of interest to researchers and industrialists alike.