Understanding Phase Diagrams

About this course

In this course, we explore the world of phase diagrams and see why they are such useful tools. We cover a wide variety of topics including:Fundamental theory applicable to all phase diagramsUnary Phase Diagrams:We look at the Clausius-Clapeyron equations and learn how to apply these equations to real life problems. We also look at examples of unary phase diagrams and see how they can help us.Binary Phase Diagrams:In the section on binary phase diagrams, we first take a look at some of the theory specific to binary phase diagrams, such as:Binary compoundsInvariant ReactionsIsothermal/Heterothermal meltingCrystallization sequences and lever rule calculationsFe-Fe3C Phase diagramWe also take a look at on of the most common phase diagrams. We analyze this phase diagram in terms of the theory we learnt in the precious section and also use this phase diagram to answer some relevant questions.Binary phase diagram with a gas phaseIn this section, we look at a special case of binary phase diagrams. One which is associated with a gas phase. We analyze this phase diagram, and see how the Gibbs phase rule changes with regards to the analysis of this system. We also look at crystallization sequences under conditions of constant composition and constant pressure of the gas phase.Ternary Phase Diagrams:In the final section, we first go through theory that is relevant to ternary phase diagrams, including:Invariant ReactionsIsothermal/Heterothermal meltingIdentifying Binary and Ternary compounds and whether they melt isothermally or heterothermallyAlkemade triangles and the Alkemade theoremLiquidus Plots (incl. liquid immiscibility)Crystallization sequences (incl. alteration a