The 20th century saw tremendous achievements and progress in science and
technology. Undoubtedly, computers and computer-related technologies acted as
one of vital catalysts for accelerating this progress in the latter half of
the century. The contributions of mathematical sciences have been equally
profound, and the synergy between mathematics and computer science has played a
key role in accelerating the progress of both fields as well as science
and engineering.

Mathematical sciences will undoubtedly continue to play this vital role in this
new century. In particular, mathematical modeling and numerical simulation will
continue to be among the essential methodologies for solving massive and
complex problems that arise in science, engineering and manufacturing. Underpinning this all from a sound, theoretical perspective will be numerical algorithms. In recognition of this observation, this volume focuses on the
following specific topics.

(1) Fundamental numerical algorithms
(2) Applications of numerical algorithms
(3) Emerging technologies.

The articles included in this issue by experts on advanced scientific and
engineering computations from numerous countries elucidate state-of-the-art achievements in these three topics from various angles and suggest the future directions. Although we cannot hope to cover all the aspects in scientific and engineering computations, we hope that the articles will interest, inform and inspire members of the science and engineering community.

The book aims at providing to master and PhD students the basic knowledge in fluid mechanics for chemical engineers. Applications to mixing and reaction and to mechanical separation processes are addressed.

The first part of the book presents the principles of fluid mechanics used by chemical engineers, with a focus on global theorems for describing the behavior of hydraulic systems. The second part deals with turbulence and its application for stirring, mixing and chemical reaction. The third part addresses mechanical separation processes by considering the dynamics of particles in a flow and the processes of filtration, fluidization and centrifugation. The mechanics of granular media is finally discussed.