Adaptive control has been one of the main problems studied in control theory. The subject is well understood, yet it has a very active research frontier. This book focuses on a specific subclass of adaptive control, namely, learning-based adaptive control. As systems evolve during time or are exposed to unstructured environments, it is expected that some of their characteristics may change. This book offers a new perspective about how to deal with these variations. By merging together Model-Free and Model-Based learning algorithms, the author demonstrates, using a number of mechatronic examples, how the learning process can be shortened and optimal control performance can be reached and maintained.

Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine in Ophthalmology, Second Edition, focuses on an aging population and the increasing instances of eye diseases. Biomaterials continue to be used for numerous medical devices for the restoration of eyesight, improving many patients' quality of life. Consequently, biomaterials and regenerative medicine are becoming increasingly important to the advances of ophthalmology and optometry. This book provides readers with an updated and expanded look at the present status and future direction of biomaterials and regenerative medicine in this important field.

Manufacturing of Nanocomposites with Engineering Plastics collates recent research findings on the manufacturing, properties, and applications of nanocomposites with engineering plastics in one comprehensive volume. The book specifically examines topics of engineering plastics, rheology, thermo-mechanical properties, wear, flame retardancy, modeling, filler surface modification, and more. It represents a ready reference for managers and scholars working in the areas of polymer and nanocomposite materials science, both in industry and academia, and provides introductory information for people new to the field.

Some power electronic converters are specifically designed to power equipment under a smoothed DC voltage. Therefore, the filtering part necessarily involves the use of auxiliary passive components (inductors and capacitors). This book deals with technical aspects such as classical separation between isolated and non-isolated power supplies, and soft switching through a special converter. It addresses the problem of regulating the output voltage of the switching power supplies in terms of modeling and obtaining transfer of SMPS functions. Power Electronics for Industry and Transport, Volume 3, offers a case study of an isolated flyback power which the complete design is presented: the active and passive components are sized based on the specifications initially set. Particular attention is given to the converter output capacitors and all the surrounding organs.

Biocorrosion refers to corrosion influenced by bacteria adhering to surfaces in biofilms. Biocorrosion is a major problem in areas such as cooling systems and marine structures where biofilms can develop. This book summarises key recent research in this subject. Part one looks at theories of biocorrosion and measurement techniques. Part two discusses how bacteria and biofilms result in biocorrosion. The final part of the book includes case studies of biocorrosion in areas as diverse as buildings, fuels, marine environments and cooling systems.

The Welding Engineer's Guide to Fracture and Fatigue provides an essential introduction to fracture and fatigue and the assessment of these failure modes, through to the level of knowledge that would be expected of a qualified welding engineer. Part one covers the basic principles of weld fracture and fatigue. It begins with a review of the design of engineered structures, provides descriptions of typical welding defects and how these defects behave in structures undergoing static and cyclical loading, and explains the range of failure modes. Part two then explains how to detect and assess defects using fitness for service assessment procedures. Throughout, the book assumes no prior knowledge and explains concepts from first principles.

Friction-stir welding (FSW) is a solid-state joining process primarily used on aluminum, and is also widely used for joining dissimilar metals such as aluminum, magnesium, copper and ferrous alloys. Recently, a friction-stir processing (FSP) technique based on FSW has been used for microstructural modifications, the homogenized and refined microstructure along with the reduced porosity resulting in improved mechanical properties. Advances in friction-stir welding and processing deals with the processes involved in different metals and polymers, including their microstructural and mechanical properties, wear and corrosion behavior, heat flow, and simulation. The book is structured into ten chapters, covering applications of the technology; tool and welding design; material and heat flow; microstructural evolution; mechanical properties; corrosion behavior and wear properties. Later chapters cover mechanical alloying and FSP as a welding and casting repair technique; optimization and simulation of artificial neural networks; and FSW and FSP of polymers.
Provides studies of the microstructural, mechanical, corrosion and wear properties of friction-stir welded and processed materialsConsiders heat generation, heat flow and material flowCovers simulation of FSW/FSP and use of artificial neural network in FSW/FSP

The development of biodegradable implants which can remain in the human body to fix a problem and subsequently dissolve, or be absorbed, consumed or excreted, without warranting a secondary surgery, is very appealing to scientists. Due to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, magnesium implants provide a viable option many problems associated with permanent metallic implants such as, restenosis, thrombosis, permanent physical irritation, and inability to adapt to growth and changes in human body. Volume 2 of this important new book explores practical issues of magnesium and magnesium alloys, physical and mechanical modification and coatings to enhance this material for biomedical applications.

Advances in Applied Mechanics draws together recent significant advances in various topics in applied mechanics. Published since 1948, Advances in Applied Mechanics aims to provide authoritative review articles on topics in the mechanical sciences, primarily of interest to scientists and engineers working in the various branches of mechanics, but also of interest to the many who use the results of investigations in mechanics in various application areas, such as aerospace, chemical, civil, environmental, mechanical and nuclear engineering.

The 24th European Symposium on Computer Aided Process Engineering creates an international forum where scientific and industrial contributions of computer-aided techniques are presented with applications in process modeling and simulation, process synthesis and design, operation, and process optimization.

The organizers have broadened the boundaries of Process Systems Engineering by inviting contributions at different scales of modeling and demonstrating vertical and horizontal integration. Contributions range from applications at the molecular level to the strategic level of the supply chain and sustainable development. They cover major classical themes, at the same time exploring a new range of applications that address the production of renewable forms of energy, environmental footprints and sustainable use of resources and water.

Current concerns with climate change have resulted in greatly increased interest in power recovery from low grade heat sources. This includes both hot fluid streams which can be expanded directly to produce mechanical power and those which act as a source of heat to closed cycle power generation systems. "Power recovery from low grate heat by means of screw expanders" with a generalised overview of how best to recover power from such sources, based on thermodynamic considerations, which differs to the approach used in classical thermodynamics textbooks and which includes an introductory description of the types of working fluid that are used in systems used to recover power from such sources and the criteria that must be taken into account in their selection. This is followed by a description of the mathematical modelling of twin screw machine geometry. The modelling of the thermodynamics and fluid flow through such machines is then given, together with how this is used to predict their performance. Finally a detailed description is given of systems currently used or projected both for direct expansion of the source fluid and by recovery of heat from it, which includes those which are particularly suited to the use of screw expanders in place of turbines.
A novel generalised approach to the thermodynamics of power recovery from low grade heat systemsGives criteria for working fluid selectionProvides details of, and how to model, screw expander geometryDetails how to estimate screw expander performanceSurveys types of system used for power recovery from low grade heat and where this can be improved by the use of screw expanders.

"Primer on Flat Rolling" is a fully revised second edition, and the outcome of over three decades of involvement with the rolling process. It is based on the author's yearly set of lectures, delivered to engineers and technologists working in the rolling metal industry. The essential and basic ideas involved in designing and analysis of the rolling process are presented.

The book discusses and illustrates in detail the three components of flat rolling: the mill, the rolled metal, and their interface. New processes are also covered; flexible rolling and accumulative roll-bonding. The last chapter contains problems, with solutions that illustrate the complexities of flat rolling.

New chapters include a study of hot rolling of aluminum, contributed by Prof. M. Wells; advanced applications of the finite element method, by Dr. Yuli Liu and by Dr. G. Krallics; roll design by Dr. J. B. Tiley and the history of the development of hot rolling mills, written by Mr. D. R. Adair and E. B. Intong.

Engineers, technologists and students can all use this book to aid their planning and analysis of flat rolling processes.
Provides clear descriptions for engineers and technologists working in steel millsEvaluates the predictive capabilities of mathematical modelsAssignments and their solutions are included within the text

The second edition of "Internal Photoemission Spectroscopy" thoroughly updates this vital, practical guide to internal photoemission (IPE) phenomena and measurements. The book's discussion of fundamental physical and technical aspects of IPE spectroscopic applications is supplemented by an extended overview of recent experimental results in swiftly advancing research fields. These include the development of insulating materials for advanced SiMOS technology, metal gate materials, development of heterostructures based on high-mobility semiconductors, and more. Recent results concerning the band structure of important interfaces in novel materials are covered as well.

Internal photoemission involves the physics of charge carrier photoemission from one solid to another, and different spectroscopic applications of this phenomenon to solid state heterojunctions. This technique complements conventional external photoemission spectroscopy by analyzing interfaces separated from the sample surface by a layer of a different solid or liquid. Internal photoemission provides the most straightforward, reliable information regarding the energy spectrum of electron states at interfaces. At the same time, the method enables the analysis of heterostructures relevant to modern micro- and nano-electronic devices as well as new materials involved in their design and fabrication.
First complete model description of the internal photoemission phenomenaOverview of the most reliable energy barrier determination procedures and trap characterization methodsOverview of the most recent results on band structure of high-permittivity insulating materials and their interfaces with semiconductors and metals

This book presents the papers from the "Internal Combustion Engines: Performance, fuel economy and emissions" held in London, UK. This popular international conference from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers provides a forum for IC engine experts looking closely at developments for personal transport applications, though many of the drivers of change apply to light and heavy duty, on and off highway, transport and other sectors. These are exciting times to be working in the IC engine field. With the move towards downsizing, advances in FIE and alternative fuels, new engine architectures and the introduction of Euro 6 in 2014, there are plenty of challenges. The aim remains to reduce both CO2 emissions and the dependence on oil-derivate fossil fuels whilst meeting the future, more stringent constraints on gaseous and particulate material emissions as set by EU, North American and Japanese regulations. How will technology developments enhance performance and shape the next generation of designs? The book introduces compression and internal combustion engines applications, followed by chapters on the challenges faced by alternative fuels and fuel delivery. The remaining chapters explore current improvements in combustion, pollution prevention strategies and data comparisons.
presents the latest requirements and challenges for personal transport applications

gives an insight into the technical advances and research going on in the IC Engines field

provides the latest developments in compression and spark ignition engines for light and heavy-duty applications, automotive and other markets "

The Finite Element Method for Fluid Dynamics offers a complete introduction the application of the finite element method to fluid mechanics. The book begins with a useful summary of all relevant partial differential equations before moving on to discuss convection stabilization procedures, steady and transient state equations, and numerical solution of fluid dynamic equations.

The character-based split (CBS) scheme is introduced and discussed in detail, followed by thorough coverage of incompressible and compressible fluid dynamics, flow through porous media, shallow water flow, and the numerical treatment of long and short waves. Updated throughout, this new edition includes new chapters on:

Fluid-structure interaction, including discussion of one-dimensional and multidimensional problems.

Biofluid dynamics, covering flow throughout the human arterial system.

Focusing on the core knowledge, mathematical and analytical tools needed for successful computational fluid dynamics (CFD), "The Finite Element Method for Fluid Dynamics" is the authoritative introduction of choice for graduate level students, researchers and professional engineers.
A proven keystone reference in the library of any engineer needing to understand and apply the finite element method to fluid mechanics. Founded by an influential pioneer in the field and updated in this seventh edition by leading academics who worked closely with Olgierd C. Zienkiewicz. Features new chapters on fluid-structure interaction and biofluid dynamics, including coverage of one-dimensional flow in flexible pipes and challenges in modeling systemic arterial circulation.

Laser welding is a rapidly developing and versatile technology which has found increasing applications in industry and manufacturing. It allows the precision welding of small and hard-to-reach areas, and is particularly suitable for operation under computer or robotic control. The Handbook of laser welding technologies reviews the latest developments in the field and how they can be used across a variety of applications.
Part one provides an introduction to the fundamentals of laser welding before moving on to explore developments in established technologies including CO2 laser welding, disk laser welding and laser micro welding technology. Part two highlights laser welding technologies for various materials including aluminium and titanium alloys, plastics and glass. Part three focuses on developments in emerging laser welding technologies with chapters on the applications of robotics in laser welding and developments in the modelling and simulation of laser and hybrid laser welding. Finally, part four explores the applications of laser welding in the automotive, railway and shipbuilding industries.
The Handbook of laser welding technologies is a technical resource for researchers and engineers using laser welding technologies, professionals requiring an understanding of laser welding techniques and academics interested in the field.
Provides an introduction to the fundamentals of laser welding including characteristics, welding defects and evolution of laser weldingDiscusses developments in a number of techniques including disk, conduction and laser micro weldingFocusses on technologies for particular materials such as light metal alloys, plastics and glass

This book is the third in the Woodhead Publishing Reviews: Mechanical Engineering Series, and includes high quality articles (full research articles, review articles and case studies) with a special emphasis on research and development in machining and machine-tools. Machining and machine tools is an important subject with application in several industries. Parts manufactured by other processes often require further operations before the product is ready for application. Traditional machining is the broad term used to describe removal of material from a work piece, and covers chip formation operations including: turning, milling, drilling and grinding. Recently the industrial utilization of non-traditional machining processes such as EDM (electrical discharge machining), LBM (laser-beam machining), AWJM (abrasive water jet machining) and USM (ultrasonic machining) has increased. The performance characteristics of machine tools and the significant development of existing and new processes, and machines, are considered. Nowadays, in Europe, USA, Japan and countries with emerging economies machine tools is a sector with great technological evolution.
Includes high quality articles (full research articles, review articles and cases studies) with a special emphasis on research and development in machining and machine-toolsConsiders the performance characteristics of machine tools and the significant development of existing and new processes and machinesContains subject matter which is significant for many important centres of research and universities worldwide

The increased use of polymer matrix composites in structural applications has led to the growing need for a very high level of quality control and testing of products to ensure and monitor performance over time. Non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of polymer matrix composites explores a range of NDE techniques and the use of these techniques in a variety of application areas.
Part one provides an overview of a range of NDE and NDT techniques including eddy current testing, shearography, ultrasonics, acoustic emission, and dielectrics. Part two highlights the use of NDE techniques for adhesively bonded applications. Part three focuses on NDE techniques for aerospace applications including the evaluation of aerospace composites for impact damage and flaw characterisation. Finally, the use of traditional and emerging NDE techniques in civil and marine applications is explored in part four.
With its distinguished editor and international team of expert contributors, Non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of polymer matrix composites is a technical resource for researchers and engineers using polymer matrix composites, professionals requiring an understanding of non-destructive evaluation techniques, and academics interested in this field.
Explores a range of NDE and NDT techniques and considers future trendsExamines in detail NDE techniques for adhesively bonded applicationsDiscusses NDE techniques in aerospace applications including detecting impact damage, ultrasonic techniques and structural health monitoring

Compressibility, Turbulence and High Speed Flow introduces the reader to the field of compressible turbulence and compressible turbulent flows across a broad speed range, through a unique complimentary treatment of both the theoretical foundations and the measurement and analysis tools currently used.

The book provides the reader with the necessary background and current trends in the theoretical and experimental aspects of compressible turbulent flows and compressible turbulence. Detailed derivations of the pertinent equations describing the motion of such turbulent flows is provided and an extensive discussion of the various approaches used in predicting both free shear and wall bounded flows is presented. Experimental measurement techniques common to the compressible flow regime are introduced with particular emphasis on the unique challenges presented by high speed flows. Both experimental and numerical simulation work is supplied throughout to provide the reader with an overall perspective of current trends.

An introduction to current techniques in compressible turbulent flow analysis
An approach that enables engineers to identify and solve complex compressible flow challenges
Prediction methodologies, including the Reynolds-averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) method, scale filtered methods and direct numerical simulation (DNS)
Current strategies focusing on compressible flow control

Light water reactors (LWRs) are the predominant class of nuclear power reactors in operation today; however, ageing and degradation can influence both their performance and lifetime. Knowledge of these factors is therefore critical to safe, continuous operation. Materials ageing and degradation in light water reactors provides a comprehensive guide to prevalent deterioration mechanisms, and the approaches used to handle their effects.
Part one introduces fundamental ageing issues and degradation mechanisms. Beginning with an overview of ageing and degradation issues in LWRs, the book goes on to discuss corrosion in pressurized water reactors and creep deformation of materials in LWRs. Part two then considers materials ageing and degradation in specific LWR components. Applications of zirconium alloys in LWRs are discussed, along with the ageing of electric cables. Materials management strategies for LWRs are then the focus of part three. Materials management strategies for pressurized water reactors and VVER reactors are considered before the book concludes with a discussion of materials-related problems faced by LWR operators and corresponding research needs.
With its distinguished editor and international team of expert contributors, Materials ageing and degradation in light water reactors is an authoritative review for anyone requiring an understanding of the performance and durability of this type of nuclear power plant, including plant operators and managers, nuclear metallurgists, governmental and regulatory safety bodies, and researchers, scientists and academics working in this area.
Introduces the fundamental ageing issues and degradation mechanisms associated with this class of nuclear power reactorsConsiders materials ageing and degradation in specific light water reactor components, including properties, performance and inspectionChapters also focus on material management strategies"

Lubricants are essential in engineering, however more sustainable formulations are needed to avoid adverse effects on the ecosystem. Bio-based lubricant formulations present a promising solution. Biolubricants: Science and technology is a comprehensive, interdisciplinary and timely review of this important subject.
Initial chapters address the principles of lubrication, before systematically reviewing fossil and bio-based feedstock resources for biodegradable lubricants. Further chapters describe catalytic, (bio) chemical functionalisation processes for transformation of feedstocks into commercial products, product development, relevant legislation, life cycle assessment, major product groups and specific performance criteria in all major applications. Final chapters consider markets for biolubricants, issues to consider when selecting and using a lubricant, lubricant disposal and future trends.
With its distinguished authors, Biolubricants: Science and technology is a comprehensive reference for an industrial audience of oil formulators and lubrication engineers, as well as researchers and academics with an interest in the subject. It provides an essential overview of scientific and technological developments enabling the cost-effective improvement of biolubricants, something that is crucial for the green future of the lubricant industry.
A comprehensive, interdisciplinary and timely review of bio-based lubricant formulationsAddresses the principles of lubricationReviews fossil and bio-based feedstock resources for biodegradable lubricants

This book focuses on the structural determination of crystalline solids with extensive disorder. Well-established methods exist for characterizing the structure of fully crystalline solids or fully disordered materials such as liquids and glasses, but there is a dearth of techniques for the cases in-between, crystalline solids with internal atomic and nanometer scale disorder. Egami and Billinge discuss how to fill the gap using modern tools of structural characterization. This problem is encountered in the structural characterization of a surprisingly wide range of complex materials of interest to modern technology and is becoming increasingly important.

Takeshi Egami received the 2003 Eugene Bertram Warren Diffraction Physics Award for the work described in the book.

The authors received 2010 J. D. Hanawalt Award from the International Union of Crystallography largely based on the success of this book

Praise for the first edition: "Egami and Billinge are experts in the application of PDF analysis and their writing is both clear and insightful. The organisation of the book is also excellent, with illuminating examples provided throughout. If you have an interest in atomic structure of materials, and local structural details in particular, PDF methods can be profoundly useful. I would heartily recommend this book as a starting point if you are considering using PDF analysis in your own work. For more experienced practitioners, this text is a useful reference. Materials Today, June 2004"
Introduces a unique method to study the atomic structure of nanomaterialsLays out the basic theory and methods of this important emerging techniqueThe first edition is considered the seminal text on the subject

Given the widespread use of polymers in medical devices, the durability and reliability of this material in use is an area of critical importance. Durability and reliability of medical polymers reviews the performance of both bioresorbable and non-bioresorbable medical polymers.
Part one provides a review of the types and properties of bioresorbable medical polymers. The effect of molecular structure on properties is discussed, along with the processing of bioresorbable and other polymers for medical applications. Transport phenomena and the degradation of bioresorbable medical polymers are reviewed, before an exploration of synthetic bioresorbable polymers and their use in orthopaedic tissue regeneration. Part two goes on to explore the durability and reliability of non-bioresorbable medical polymers, and wear processes in polymer implants and ageing processes of biomedical polymers in the body are discussed in depth, before an investigation into manufacturing defects and the failure of synthetic polymeric medical devices.
With its distinguished editors and international team of expert contributors, Durability and reliability of medical polymers is an essential tool for all materials scientists, researchers and engineers involved in the design, development and application of medical polymers, whilst also providing a helpful overview of the subject for biologists, chemist and clinicians.
Comprehensively examines the performance of both bioresorbable and non-bioresorbable medical polymersDiscusses the processing of bioresorbable and other polymers for medical applications, before reviewing the degradation of bioresorbable medical polymersExplores the durability and reliability of non-bioresorbable medical polymers and discusses wear processes in polymer implants and ageing processes of biomedical polymers in the body

Nanotechnology is considered the next big revolution in medicine and biology. For the past 20 years, research groups have been involved in the development of new applications of novel nanomaterials for biotechnological applications. Nanomaterials are also becoming increasingly important in medical applications, with new drugs and diagnostic tools based on nanotechnology. Every year, hundreds of new ideas using nanomaterials are applied in the development of biosensors. An increasing number of new enterprises are also searching for market opportunities using these technologies.

Nanomaterials for biotechnological applications is a very complex field. Thousands of different nanoparticles could potentially be used for these purposes. Some of them are very different; their synthesis, characterization and potentiality are very diverse. This book aims to establish a route guide for non-erudite researchers in the field, showing the advantages and disadvantages of the different kind of nanomaterials. Particular attention is given to the differences, advantages and disadvantages of inorganic nanoparticles versus organic nanoparticles when used for biotechnological applications. A tutorial introduction provides the basis for understanding the subsequent specialized chapters.
Provides an overview of the main advantages and disadvantages of the use of organic and inorganic nanoparticles for use in biotechnology and nanomedicine Provides an excellent starting point for research groups looking for solutions in nanotechnology who do not know which kind of materials will best suit their needsIncludes a tutorial introductionthat provides a basis for understanding the subsequent specialized chapters"

Turbulence in Porous Media introduces the reader to the characterisation of turbulent flow, heat and mass transfer in permeable media, including analytical data and a review of available experimental data. Such transport processes occurring a relatively high velocity in permeable media are present in a number of engineering and natural flows. This new edition features a completely updated text including two new chapters exploring Turbulent Combustion and Moving Porous Media. De Lemos has expertly brought together a text that compiles, details, compares and evaluates available methodologies for modelling and simulating flow, providing an essential tour for engineering students working within the field as well as those working in chemistry, physics, applied mathematics, and geological and environmental sciences.
Brings together groundbreaking and complex research on turbulence in porous mediaExtends the original model to situations including reactive systemsNow discusses movement of the porous matrix"