Environmental science, engineering and technology Books

Book SynopsisAll the mandatory units of the 2010 BTEC Level 3 Engineering specification, plus selected popular optional units Clear, full colour layout and numerous activities, worked examples and questions with answers, make it easy for students to learn and revise for their exams Content you can trust â written by two lecturers with over 50 years combined experience of designing and delivering engineering qualifications Free student website with interactive quizzes, downloads and additional material o support learning The third edition of this bestselling textbook ensures that all the mandatory units of 2010 BTEC Level 3 Engineering specification are fully covered in a way that encourages students to explore engineering for themselves, developing the expertise and knowledge required at this level.Key points and definitions highlight the most important concepts and hundreds of activities and worked examples help put theory in context. Questions throughout the text, with answers provided, allow students to test their knowledge as they go, while end of unit review questions are ideal for exam revision and set course work.For lecturers a Tutor Support DVD-ROM is available to help with the delivery of the programme: BTEC National Engineering Tutor Support Material, ISBN 978-0-08-096683-0.Units covered: Unit 1 â Health and Safety in the Workplace, Unit 2 â Communications for Engineering Technicians, Unit 3 â Engineering Project, Unit 4 â Mathematics for Engineering technicians, Unit 5 â Mechanical Principles and Applications, Unit 6 â Electrical and Electronic Principles, Unit 7 â Business Operations in Engineering, Unit 8 â Engineering Design.A free student website, including answers to all activities, is available at http://www.key2study.com/btecnat and features: Interactive quizzes with automatic marking and feedback A free comprehensive 2D CAD package for downloading A variety of spreadsheet tools for solving common engineering problems Useful engineering data summaries Extensive Visio symbol libraries for engineering drawing/CAD Drawing templates and sample drawings in industry-standard format Additional material to support learning activities and assignments Book chapter: Arithmetic and Trigonometric Fundamentals âTest your Knowledgeâ and âEnd of Unit Reviewâ questions Trade Review'Decent coverage of the mandatory units along with a good selection of worked examples. The book is well illustrated with check your knowledge questions at the end of each section.' Alun Furzer, Newport and District Group Training Association'Decent coverage of the mandatory units along with a good selection of worked examples. The book is well illustrated with check your knowledge questions at the end of each section.' Alun Furzer, Newport and District Group Training AssociationTable of ContentsIntroduction, Unit 1 Health and Safety in the Engineering Workplace, Unit 2 Communications for Engineering Technicians, Unit 3 Engineering Project, Unit 4 Mathematics for Engineering Technicians, Unit 5 Mechanical Principles and Applications, Unit 6 Electrical and Electronic Principles, Unit 7 Business Operations in Engineering, Unit 8 Engineering Design

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Book SynopsisTable of Contents1. Fluid Flow 2. Heat Exchangers 3. Fractionators 4. Absorbers 5. Pumps 6. Fans, Blowers and Compressors 7. Drivers 8. Vessels 9. Boilers 10. Cooling Towers 11. Refrigeration 12. Closed Loop Heat Transfer Systems 13. Biopharmaceutical Systems 14. Biotechnology 15. Vacuum Systems 16. Pneumatic Conveying 17. Lending and Agitation 18. Filtration 19. Process Evaluation 20. Reliability 21. Metallurgy 22. Safety 23. Controls 24. Troubleshooting 25. Startup 26. Energy Conservation 27. Process Modeling 28. Conversion Factors and Constants 29. Properties

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsPART 1. Legacy and emerging contaminants in marine mammal populations 1. Organochlorine contaminants and reproductive implication in cetaceans: A case study of the common dolphin 2. Feeding ecology tools to assess contaminant exposure in coastal mammals 3. The toxicological effects of oil exposure on cetaceans 4. Legacy contamination in estuarine dolphin species from the South American coast 5. Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Marine Mammals 6. Marine debris interaction with marine mammals 7. Persistent organic pollutants in cetaceans living in a hotspot area: the Mediterranean sea 8. Pollutants in tropical marine mammals of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: An Ecotoxicological Quest to the Last Eden PART 2. Effects of toxicological and cumulative stress on marine mammal health 9. Field sampling techniques and ecotoxicological Biomarkers in cetaceans 10. Ecotoxicological biomarkers and accumulation of contaminants in pinnipeds 11. New technologies for monitoring marine mammal health 12. Immunotoxic effects of environmental pollutants in marine mammals 13. Ecotoxicological stress in Arctic marine mammals - with particular focus on polar bears 14. Toxicological Risks and Considerations Associated with Lipophilic Contaminant Burdens of Mysticetes in Antarctic Ecosystems 15. Emerging pathogens and stress syndromes of cetaceans in European waters: cumulative effects 16. Ecotoxicology of the Sirenia in the Twenty-First Century PART 3. Implication for monitoring and conservation of marine mammals 17. Marine mammals and multiple stressors, implications for conservation and policy

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Book SynopsisEnvironment and Society relates to a diverse audience and encompasses viewpoints from a variety of natural and social science approaches. This integrative book about human-environment relations connects many issues about human societies, ecological systems, and environments with data and perspectives from different fields of study. Its viewpoint is primarily sociological and it is designed for courses in Environmental Sociology and Environmental Issues, or taught in departments of Sociology, Environmental Studies, Anthropology, Political Science, and Human Geography.Table of Contents 1. Environment, Human Systems, and Social Science 2. Humans and the Resources of the Earth: Sources and Sinks 3. Global Climate Change 4. Energy and Society 5. Population, Environment, and Food 6. Globalization, Growth, and Sustainability 7. Transforming Structures. Markets and Politics 8. Environmentalism. Ideology and Collective Action

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Book SynopsisTable of Contents1. Basic Calculations 2. Rig Calculations 3. Pressure Control 4. Fluid Calculations 5. Cementing Calculations 6. Well Hydraulics 7. Drilling Calculations 8. Air and Gas Calculations

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Book SynopsisThis book explores how cultural considerations can improve policymaking to achieve mainstream solar energy in small, tropical islands. Focusing on Trinidad, Barbados and OÊahu, Kiron C. Neale looks at how culture can affect and be affected by the policies that support the household adoption of two key energy technologies: solar water heating and photovoltaics. Drawing on interviews with residents and energy officials, and an examination of the institutional, socio-economic and physical factors that affect energy systems such as governance structures and energy resource availability, the author explores themes including the impact of insularity on energy transitions and behavioural and cultural change. Overall, this book rebrands policies as instruments of cultural change and puts forward recommendations applicable to all small, tropical islands.Following the islandsâ transition to renewable energy, this book will be of great interest to scholars of energy policy, energTrade Review"Kiron has a unique and insightful perspective on emerging energy transitions in Trinidad, Barbados and O'ahu. Focusing on culture, an under-explored topic of energy transitions, Kiron’s research provides rich insights, and aligned policy recommendations, into how solar can be brought out of niche market and social environments and into the mainstream." -- Rebecca Ford, Strathclyde Chancellor's Fellow, University of Strathclyde, UK"A creative and rigorous book that examines an understudied topic, the household and cultural uses of solar energy in small island developing states. It shows that tropical island countries have far more to offer the world than sun, sea, and sand. Important reading for those who care about energy transitions across less common paths." -- Benjamin Sovacool, Professor of Energy Policy, Director of the Sussex Energy Group, & Director of the Center on Innovation and Energy Demand, University of Sussex, UK"This book tackles the interesting question of how solar energy can be introduced into island economies. Drawing on evidence from islands with a range of different histories and resource endowments, it provides a fresh approach to island energy systems, using thinking from cultural studies and innovation theories to inform how practice and policy might change." -- Nick Eyre, Professor of Energy and Climate Policy & Director of the UK Centre for Research on Energy Demand, University of Oxford"Small island populations are minor contributors to global climate change but among the most sensitive and vulnerable to its impacts, such as sea level rise. Kiron Neale’s probing, comparative study of energy transitions away from fossil fuels to renewable energy in the island communities of Trinidad, Barbados, and O'ahu is among the first to take both the culture of energy and energy of culture seriously in sustainability transitions. The insights build constructively on socio-technical transitions theory and are of significance to energy regimes in the global North and South." -- Thomas Thornton, Dean of Arts and Sciences & Vice Provost for Research and Sponsored Programs, University of Alaska Southeast, USA"Islands matter: Clean and abundant alternative energy from the sun is being mainstreamed in tropical, small island communities, assisting their transition away from fossil fuel dependence. With a focus on Barbados, O'ahu and Trinidad, Kiron Neale argues convincingly that culture, policy and technology need to be aligned for such a transition to be successful." -- Godfrey Baldacchino, Professor of Sociology, University of Malta and President, International Small Islands Studies Association (ISISA) "This timely book provides very helpful new insights on the challenges and opportunities of establishing sustainable energy services in tropical islands. In particular, it will help practitioners, policy makers and their advisors map a path through the complex interactions of cultures, politics and technologies which must be navigated in order to deliver the development benefits from sustainable energy services that are so needed by communities in tropical islands." -- John Holmes, Senior Research Fellow in Environmental Policy, University of Oxford, UK"This book is written with a lovely, light touch – just like a Caribbean wind, or the lapping waves. It shows how a just energy transition can occur in small islands through the use of renewable, solar power. The text combines a clear understanding of the role of culture in what is acceptable to people and investigates how policy can combine with this to achieve the transition. The overall perspective links an academic approach with that of a realistic recognition of what is needed to help these islands transform their energy systems. There are over 2000 oceanic islands that could build on the evidence from the three islands studied – Trinidad, Barbados and O'ahu in Hawaii. These small islands may not contribute large amounts of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, but they are amongst the first to suffer from rising sea level. This book provides a hopeful outlook for them." -- Brenda Boardman, Emeritus Research Fellow, University of Oxford, UK"What does the steel drum have to do with climate change? Neale's book is a treasure, as it embeds cultural path dependencies and social barriers in the climate change discourse and catalyzes a transition of "energy cultures" with policy relevant insights. It highlights that climate change adaptation and mitigation are more than technical problems and shows ways of dealing with solar technologies that even small island states can fall back on. This book hopefully finds its way into concrete policy decisions steering future climate resilient pathways." -- Beate Ratter, Professor of Integrative Geography and Coastal Research, University of Hamburg, Germany"I found Kiron Neale’s focus on the cultural and political factors of tropical Island energy transitions was not only interesting, but very useful. Neale provides guidance on why and how culture critically affects tropical island energy transitions and he does this with an inhabitant’s understanding. He has also very helpfully presented guidance on how to think through socio-technical energy transitions and mainstreaming of technologies more broadly. While I recommend this book to people interested in energy transitions, renewable energy and island scholarships, I also recommend it to those who want to understand the critical (cultural, political, technical and logistic) factors that affect other changes that are occurring in societies. For energy policy makers, energy market operators and power engineers – as you work on introducing renewables into society, keep this book near and refer to it as you go – I am confident it will be a useful guide for your work." -- Phillipa Watson, Research Fellow, School of Technology, Environments & Design, University of Tasmania, Australia"Kiron has a unique and insightful perspective on emerging energy transitions in Trinidad, Barbados and Oʻahu. Focusing on culture, an under-explored topic of energy transitions, Kiron’s research provides rich insights, and aligned policy recommendations, into how solar can be brought out of niche market and social environments and into the mainstream." -- Rebecca Ford, Strathclyde Chancellor's Fellow, University of Strathclyde, UK"A creative and rigorous book that examines an understudied topic, the household and cultural uses of solar energy in small island developing states. It shows that tropical island countries have far more to offer the world than sun, sea, and sand. Important reading for those who care about energy transitions across less common paths." -- Benjamin Sovacool, Professor of Energy Policy, Director of the Sussex Energy Group, & Director of the Center on Innovation and Energy Demand, University of Sussex, UK"This book tackles the interesting question of how solar energy can be introduced into island economies. Drawing on evidence from islands with a range of different histories and resource endowments, it provides a fresh approach to island energy systems, using thinking from cultural studies and innovation theories to inform how practice and policy might change." -- Nick Eyre, Professor of Energy and Climate Policy & Director of the UK Centre for Research on Energy Demand, University of Oxford"Small island populations are minor contributors to global climate change but among the most sensitive and vulnerable to its impacts, such as sea level rise. Kiron Neale’s probing, comparative study of energy transitions away from fossil fuels to renewable energy in the island communities of Trinidad, Barbados, and Oʻahu is among the first to take both the culture of energy and energy of culture seriously in sustainability transitions. The insights build constructively on socio-technical transitions theory and are of significance to energy regimes in the global North and South." -- Thomas Thornton, Dean of Arts and Sciences & Vice Provost for Research and Sponsored Programs, University of Alaska Southeast, USA"Islands matter: Clean and abundant alternative energy from the sun is being mainstreamed in tropical, small island communities, assisting their transition away from fossil fuel dependence. With a focus on Barbados, Oʻahu and Trinidad, Kiron Neale argues convincingly that culture, policy and technology need to be aligned for such a transition to be successful." -- Godfrey Baldacchino, Professor of Sociology & Chairman of the Board of the Centre for Labour Studies, University of Malta"This timely book provides very helpful new insights on the challenges and opportunities of establishing sustainable energy services in tropical islands. In particular, it will help practitioners, policy makers and their advisors map a path through the complex interactions of cultures, politics and technologies which must be navigated in order to deliver the development benefits from sustainable energy services that are so needed by communities in tropical islands." -- John Holmes, Senior Research Fellow in Environmental Policy, University of Oxford, UK"This book is written with a lovely, light touch – just like a Caribbean wind, or the lapping waves. It shows how a just energy transition can occur in small islands through the use of renewable, solar power. The text combines a clear understanding of the role of culture in what is acceptable to people and investigates how policy can combine with this to achieve the transition. The overall perspective links an academic approach with that of a realistic recognition of what is needed to help these islands transform their energy systems. There are over 2000 oceanic islands that could build on the evidence from the three islands studied – Trinidad, Barbados and Oʻahu in Hawaii. These small islands may not contribute large amounts of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, but they are amongst the first to suffer from rising sea level. This book provides a hopeful outlook for them." -- Brenda Boardman, Emeritus Research Fellow, University of Oxford, UK"What does the steel drum have to do with climate change? Neale's book is a treasure, as it embeds cultural path dependencies and social barriers in the climate change discourse and catalyzes a transition of "energy cultures" with policy relevant insights. It highlights that climate change adaptation and mitigation are more than technical problems and shows ways of dealing with solar technologies that even small island states can fall back on. This book hopefully finds its way into concrete policy decisions steering future climate resilient pathways." -- Beate Ratter, Professor of Integrative Geography and Coastal Research, University of Hamburg, Germany"I found Kiron Neale’s focus on the cultural and political factors of tropical Island energy transitions was not only interesting, but very useful. Neale provides guidance on why and how culture critically affects tropical island energy transitions and he does this with an inhabitant’s understanding. He has also very helpfully presented guidance on how to think through socio-technical energy transitions and mainstreaming of technologies more broadly. While I recommend this book to people interested in energy transitions, renewable energy and island scholarships, I also recommend it to those who want to understand the critical (cultural, political, technical and logistic) factors that affect other changes that are occurring in societies. For energy policy makers, energy market operators and power engineers – as you work on introducing renewables into society, keep this book near and refer to it as you go – I am confident it will be a useful guide for your work." -- Phillipa Watson, Research Fellow, School of Technology, Environments & Design, University of Tasmania, AustraliaTable of ContentsPart 1: Small Islands, Energy Transitions and ‘Mainstream Culture’ 1. ‘Sun, Sea and Sand’ and Solar Energy 2. Energy Transitions and The Mainstream 3. Energy Transitions and Mainstream Energy Cultures Part 2: Beginning the Household Solar Energy Transition 4. Agriculture, Fossil Fuels and Electricity 5. Electricity and Mainstream Energy Cultures Part 3: Transitioning to and through Household Solar Energy Technologies 6. Electricity, Solar Hot Water and Mainstream Cultural Change 7. Solar Water Heating, PV and Policy Implementation Part 4: Mainstreaming Solar Energy in Small, Tropical Islands 8. Conclusions on Mainstreaming Solar Energy

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Book SynopsisDespite the increased understanding we now have of materials and their properties, selecting materials for a given application remains a daunting, non-trivial task. The volume of data, inadequacies in the data, and the tens of thousands of materials to choose from can overwhelm the would-be user.The Materials Selector addresses all the problems faced by materials scientists and engineers. In its three volumes you will find the properties, performance, and processability of metals, plastics, carbon and graphite, glasses, ceramics, polymerics, and composites. The characteristics and comparative economics of the manufacturing routes that convert these materials into engineering components.Table of ContentsVolume 1Product Design and Materials SelectionMechanical PropertiesPhysical PropertiesCorrosionWearComponent Manufacturing ProcessesJoiningThe Significance of Materials Properties and TestingMaterials for Electromagnetic CompatibilityDesign, Materials, and Manufacturing Process Route Selection for Minimal Environmental ImpactUnits and Conversion FactorsVolume 2Wrought SteelsCast SteelsCast IronsCopper and its AlloysAluminium and it AlloysTitanium and its AlloysNickel AlloysZinc and its AlloysMagnesium AlloysLead AlloysCobalt AlloysPrecious MetalsRefractory Metals and AlloysTin and Bismuth AlloysNon-Ductile Engineering MaterialsVolume 3Introduction to Polymers and General InformationThermoplasticsThermosetsElastomersThermoplastic ElastomersFoamsPlastics Film and SheetComposites and Laminates

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Book SynopsisAn introduction to the sociological study of the environment. It emphasises the ways in which our conceptualisation of the relationships between environments and human societies differ historically and cross-culturally.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Sociology and the environment 2. Environment and society in green social and political theory 3. Confronting environmental issues: Social movements and political action 4. Environment, modernity and society: Industrialism and urbanization 5. Globalization, development and environmental change 6. Society, 'culture' and 'nature' - human relations with animals Conclusion

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Book SynopsisManagement of Off-highway Plant and Equipment provides a working knowledge of plant management for today's engineers, managers and students, and explains concisely and clearly the factors to be considered during investment in, and management of, construction equipment. It compares the cost of leasing with those of purchase, discusses ways of achieving optimum economic usage of plant, and covers issues of health and safety, licensing and the logistics of maintenance.Table of ContentsPreface. Introduction. 1. Equipment Policy. 2. Hire and Rental of Equipment. 3. Organisation of Hire Companies and Departments. 4. Types of Equipment. 5. Plant Operative Training and Education. 6. Economic Comparison of Equipment Alternatives. 7. Equipment Profitability. 8. Equipment Acquisition. 9. Systematic Selection of Equipment 10. Calculation of a Hire Rate. 11. Maintenance of Equipment. 12. Health and Safety at Work. 13. Insurance and Licensing Legalities. 14. Plant Planning and Programming. 15. Budgetary Control and Costing. 16. Cash Flow. 17. Financial Management. 18. Use of Computers in Management of Construction Equipment. 19. Overseas Operations. 20. New Developments in Plant Telemetry. Index.

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Book SynopsisTraditionally the process of design has concentrated on the construction phase itself, with the primary objective being to optimise efficiency and minimise costs during development and construction. With the move towards a more sustainable development comes the need for this short-term approach to be expanded to encompass the entire service life of the structure. This book describes how to optimise the service life of structures, through an optimum integrated life cycle design process. Sustainability and material performance issues are detailed. Integrated Life Cycle Design of Structures provides a comprehensive account of this rapidly emerging field. It is essential reading for civil and structural engineers, designers, architects, contractors, and clients.Table of ContentsContents. Preface. Introduction. 1. Framework of Integrated Life Cycle Design. 2. Design Process. 3. Design Methods. 4. Specific Descriptions. 5. Conclusions and Research Needs. Appendices

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Book SynopsisAsymptotic Methods in Resonance Analytical Dynamics presents new asymptotic methods for the analysis and construction of solutions (mainly periodic and quasiperiodic) of differential equations with small parameters. Along with some background material and theory behind these methods, the authors also consider a variety of problems and applications in nonlinear mechanics and oscillation theory. The methods examined are based on two types: the generalized averaging technique of Krylov-Bogolubov and the numeric-analytical iterations of Lyapunov-PoincarÃ. This text provides a useful source of reference for postgraduates and researchers working in this area of applied mathematics.Table of ContentsAsymptotic Methods in Resonance Analytical Dynamics presents new techniques for the analysis and construction of solutions to nonlinear, multi-frequency differential equations with small parameters. The authors examine two types of methods: Methods based on the generalized averaging technique of Krylov--Bogolubov, particularly useful in resonance cases, and methods based on numeric-analytic iterations, which can be automated. Along with some background material and theory behind these methods, the authors also consider a variety of problems and applications in nonlinear mechanics and oscillation theory, such as the Newtonian three-body problem and the motion of a geostationary satellite.

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Book SynopsisThe contamination of both drinking and recreational water supplies by cyanobacteria is increasingly a cause for concern worldwide. While contamination causes livestock deaths with relative frequency, acute poisoning is rare in humans. However, there is growing apprehension over the possible role of cylindrospermopsins and microcystins in gastrointestinal and liver cancer. Cyanobacterial Toxins of Drinking Water Supplies provides an articulate account of the biology, chemistry, toxicology, and human health implications of cylindrospermopsins and microcystins, and their occurrence in water supplies. It discusses effective methods of prevention, mitigation, and remediation of cyanobacterial blooms in reservoirs. The book presents novel and traditional approaches to water treatment for the elimination of these toxins. Written by a renowned expert who plays an instrumental role in revising the World Health Organization's drinking water guidelines for cyanotoxins, the book uses thTrade Review“This book covers the biology, chemistry, toxicology, and human health implications of cylindro-spermopsins and microcystins, as well as their occurrence in water supplies. Written by an expert in the field, the book discusses effective methods of prevention, mitigation, and remediation of cyanobacterial blooms in reservoirs and presents both new and traditional approaches for treating water to eliminate these toxins. … ” — In Journal of The Awwa, June 2007Table of ContentsIntroduction. Toxic cyanobacteria and their identification. Toxin chemistry and biosynthesis. Cyanobacterial ecology. Cyanobacterial poisoning of livestock and mankind. Cylindrospermopsin toxicity. Microcystin toxicity. Risk and safety from drinking water. Monitoring of reservoirs for toxic cyanobacteria and analysis of nutrients in water. Detection and analysis of cylindrospermopsins and microcystins. Prevention, mitigation and remediation of cyanobacterial blooms in reservoirs. Water treatment. Emerging issues. Index.

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Book SynopsisComprising the Proceedings of the International Workshop on State-of-the-Art Hydraulic Engineering held in Bari, Italy on 16-19 February 2004, this volume presents an in-depth investigation of the energy loss of skimming flows under a range of discharges, step and dam heights, and channel slopes. Including a wealth of information, the volume is divided into the following key sections: air-water flows and transitional flows; stepped chute and transitional flows; environmental and coastal hydraulics with dispersion in estuaries and jets; and transitional flows. Fluvial, Environmental and Coastal Developments in Hydraulic Engineering constitutes a comprehensive and systematic analysis of topics, including certain findings and discussions which are virtually unprecedented in hydraulic literature. As such, the volume is undoubtedly an important one, and will prove to be of particular interest to scientists and students of hydraulics and fluid mechanics, engineers, and specialistTable of ContentsPrefaceAir-water flows/Transitional flowsStepped chute/Transitional flowsEnvironmental and coastal hydraulics with dispersion in estuaries and jetsTransitional flowsAcknowledgementsAuthor index

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Book SynopsisSpearheading the promotion of international technology transfer in the fields of mine planning, mining systems design, equipment selection and operation techniques, the International Symposium on Mine Planning and Equipment Selection is recognised by the mining society as a key annual event in highlighting developments within the field. Here in this volume, proceedings from the thirteenth annual symposium concentrate on the following major topics:* open pit and underground mine planning, modelling and design* geomechanics * mining and processing methods* design, monitoring and maintenance of mine equipment* simulation, optimalization and control of technological processes* management, mine economics and financial analysis* health, safety and environmental protection.Including 147 papers from leading experts and authorities, Mine Planning and Equipment Selection undoubtedly provides valuable information and insight for a range of engineers, scientists, researchers and consultants involved in the planning, design and operation of underground and surface mines.

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Book SynopsisJointly sponsored by the China University of Mining and Technology and the University of Nottingham, UK, a total of 187 papers have been included in the proceedings, of which fifty-two are contributed by authors outside of China. Scholars and experts from both China and abroad discuss and exchange information on the latest developments in mining science and technology worldwide, which cover extensive areas ranging from mine operation and safety technology, geology and methane drainage, geomechanics, mine construction and tunnelling, mineral processing and clean coal technology, mine control and automation to mine environment, mine economics and management.

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Book SynopsisStructural Analysis of Historical Constructions contains about 160 papers that were presented at the IV International Seminar on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions that was held from 10 to 13 November, 2004 in Padova Italy. Following publications of previous seminars that were organized in Barcelona, Spain (1995 and 1998) and GuimarÃes, Portugal (2001), state-of-the-art information is presented in these two volumes on the preservation, protection, and restoration of historical constructions, both comprising monumental structures and complete city centers. These two proceedings volumes are devoted to the possibilities of numerical and experimental techniques in the maintenance of historical structures. In this respect, the papers, originating from over 30 countries, are subdivided in the following areas: Historical aspects and general methodology, Materials and laboratory testing, Non-destructive testing and inspection techniques, Dynamic behavior and structural monitoring, Analytical and numerical approaches, Consolidation and strengthening techniques, Historical timber and metal structures, Seismic analysis and vulnerability assessment, Seismic strengthening and innovative systems, Case studies.Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions is a valuable source of information for scientists and practitioners working on structure-related issues of historical constructions

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Book SynopsisThis book addresses the most pressing water resource issues in South Asia, particularly in relation to climate change and variability. This is a region characterised by abundant water during the monsoon, when devastating floods occur, and by scarcity of water and droughts during the dry period. These extreme events often cause substantial damage to infrastructure, property, livestock and human populations. Agriculture and other key economic sectors suffer greatly during these events. The results of climate and hydrologic models indicate increased vulnerability unless adequate adaptation measures are designed and implemented.  Such policies need to rely on a framework that includes active participation of the stakeholders.Table of ContentsPART 1 Remote-sensing sensors, data retreival and assimilation,and technology transfer 1 Remote sensing and hydrology 2 Hydrologic data assimilation 3 Analysis of remotely sensed data 4 Technology transfer in remote-sensing applications PART 2 Remote-sensing data applications 5 Computing and mapping of evapotranspiration 6 Satellite remote sensing of soil moisture 7 Ensemble streamflow forecasting: methods and applications 8 Regional climatic variability and its impacts on flood and drought hazards 9 Climate drivers, streamflow forecasting, and flood risk management 10 Remote sensing in water resource management 11 Geospatial information technology in watershed PART 3 Water resource management: case historiesRunoff agroforestry 13 Water pollution and its numerical modeling in coastal watersheds Index

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Book SynopsisShells are basic structural elements of modern technology. Examples of shell structures include automobile bodies, domes, water and oil tanks, pipelines, ship hulls, aircraft fuselages, turbine blades, laudspeaker cones, but also balloons, parachutes, biological membranes, a human skin, a bottle of wine or a beer can. This volume contains full texts of over 100 papers presented by specialists from over 20 countries at the 8th Conference Shell Structures: Theory and Applications, 12-14 October, 2005 in Jurata (Poland). The aim of the meeting was to bring together scientists, designers, engineers and other specialists in shell structures in order to discuss important results and new ideas in this field. The goal is to pursue more accurate theoretical models, to develop more powerful and versatile methods of analysis, and to disseminate expertise in design and maintenance of shell structures. Among the authors there are many distinguished specialists of shell structures, incTable of ContentsPrefaceOrganisation General lectures Theoretical modelling Stability Dynamics Finite element analyses Engineering design Author index

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Book SynopsisThe Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004 is considered to have been one of the worst natural disasters in history, affecting twelve countries, from Indonesia to Somalia. 175,000 people are believed to have lost their lives, almost 50,000 were registered as missing and 1.7 million people were displaced. As well as this horrendous toll on human life, the tsunami destroyed property worth billions of dollars and ruined many local economies. Based on their experience and analysis of this tsunami, the authors have developed methodologies for predicting and preparing for tsunamis. A basis is provided for a cost-effective warning and preparedness strategy, drawing on the example of existing systems used in earthquake disaster management and tidal wave warning, from genesis to impact. The book comprehensively addresses the fundamentals of tsunami science, identifying potential areas where tsunamis might be generated, predicting the anticipated course of tsunamis and considering how the geopTable of Contents1. Geostructural Environment of Tsunami Genesis 2. Modeling of Tsunami Generation and Propagation 3. Tsunami Detection and Monitoring Systems 4. Biophysical and Socio-Economic Dimensions of Tsunami Damage 5. Quo Vadis?

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Book SynopsisIn an era of new, composite materials and high-strength concrete, and with an increasing demand for sustainable building technologies, the importance of the role of steel in construction is being challenged.. Nonetheless, steel can successfully be used to refurbish and retrofit historical buildings, as well as being a material of choice for new building structures. Steel can effectively be combined with a variety of other materials to obtain structures which are characterized by a high-performance response under different types of static and dynamic activity. The proceedings contains nine keynote lectures from international experts, and is further divided into five sections: calculation models and methods; studies and advances in design codes; steel and mixed building technology; steel under exceptional actions; and steel in remarkable constructions and refurbishment.Table of ContentsPrefaceOrganizationKeynote papersCalculation models and methodsStudies and advances in design codesSteel and mixed building technologySteel under exceptional actionsSteel in remarkable constructions and refurbishmentAuthor index

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Book SynopsisThere are many urgent problems in arid land hydrogeology and it is these issues which are tackled in this volume on desert environments. The UAE-Japan symposia provide a venue for the exchange of expertise, confronting such problems as purification, usage and management of groundwater, the assessment and protection of sustainable water resources, and soil enhancement techniques for moisture control in arid lands. The hope is that a better understanding of dryland environment, combined with innovative solutions and technologies, will contribute to the greening of desert lands.Table of ContentsPrefaceSummary, recommendations and suggestions for actions 1 Groundwater management2 Groundwater assessment3 Groundwater protection4 Sustainable water resources5 Soil enhancementAuthor index

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Book SynopsisSafety is a major concern of society and touches on many areas of human activity. One important component of safety is the reliability of equipment and systems and the actions of the professionals, who design, build and operate them. Modelling methods have been developed to assess the risk associated with taking decisions relating to the design, maintenance or operation of a system. Such models include the element of uncertainty inherent in the behaviour of any given system. There are a number of theories, techniques and methods available, continuously being developed and improved, which evaluate the safety and reliability of systems, ensuring that these are operated and managed in a way as to keep the associated risks within the boundaries of what is considered tolerable or acceptable. These proceedings highlight the theories and methods used to assess safety and reliability, presenting them as powerful tools for decision-making which can be used effectively to manage the daily ris

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Book SynopsisThe task of structuring information on built environment has presented challenges to the research community, software developers and the industry for the last 20 years. Recent work has taken advantage of Web and industry standards such as XML, OWL, IFC and STEP. Another important technology for the fragmented AEC industry is digital communication. Wired or wireless, it brings together architects, engineers and construction site workers, enabling them to exchange information, communicate and work together. Virtual enterprise organization structures, involving mobile teams over distance, are highly compatible with the needs of the construction industry.Table of ContentsKeynote PapersWorkshop: R & D strategies for ICT in constructionProcess modelling and management Building information modelling and interoperabilitySupporting model-based cooperationDistributed web and grid systems and servicesMobile computingContext aware building automation servicesEcology, sustainability and environmental managementeBusiness in design, construction and supply chain managementeRegulationseLearningICT indicators, adoption and evaluationCase studies, best practice and lessons learned

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Book SynopsisâœBecome the most competitive and dynamic knowledge based economy in the world by 2010â is the major objective of the Lisbon strategy for the European Community. The European Commission re-launched the Lisbon strategy in a new initiative called i2010 â a European Information Society for growth and employment, to promote a Single European Information Space (SEIS). The aim of this initiative is to promote a borderless European information space and establishing an internal market for electronic communications and digital services, to stimulate innovation through investment in research, to encourage the industrial application of ICT, and to make the European information society as inclusive and accessible as possible.SEEM (Single European Electronic Market) is a SEIS contributor, and its goal is to integrate electronic value chains, so that companies, organizations and individuals from different Member States can be linked without experiencing any access or interoperability probTable of ContentsSelected Contents: Editorial; Preface; Information space and the i2010 strategy; The SEEMseed reference architecture; Legal and trust issues in the SEEM; The stakeholders' vision; Reference framework for SEEM; Roadmap to SEEM implementation; Conclusions; Acknowledgments; References; Annex A: Detailed interface descriptions

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Book SynopsisThis book examines the sustainability of cities and regions and concludes that currently sustainability is not achievable. By identifying how cities and regions in the past have maintained or lost sustainability and how cities and regions of today might achieve sustainability in the future, it gives a clear definition, and an understanding of the true meaning, of sustainability provides a new conceptual framework for the assessment of the sustainability of cities and regions reveals what options are available for humankind to achieve or loose sustainability identifies research that will allow the systematic establishment of the appropriate indicators for sustainable development in cities and regions. Presenting a framework to guide and direct research in the measures needed to achieve and maintain sustainability, the book will be of considerable help to local authorities and political and Table of ContentsPart 1: The Quest for Sustainable Development 1. United Nations Frameworks for Sustainable Development 2. The EU Debate on Sustainable Development 3. The UK Guidance to Achieve Sustainable Development 4. Best Practice Case Studies 5. ConclusionsDevelopment Part 2: A Scientific Foundation for Sustainable Development 6. Science, Complexity and Sustainability 7. Settlements and Cities in History that correspond to Types 0, 1 and 2 of Sustainability 8. Challenges to Sustainability 9.Availability and Choice of Options

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Book SynopsisFollowing on from the first two volumes, published in 2002, volumes 3 and 4 of Characterisation and Engineering Properties of Natural Soils review laboratory testing, in-situ testing, and methods of characterising natural soil variability, illustrated by actual site data. Less well-documented soil types are highlighted and the various papers take into account location and distribution, engineering geology, composition, state and index properties, structure and engineering properties. Also treated is the quality and reliability of data with reference to methods of sampling and testing, and its relevance to engineering problems.  These volumes will be useful to consulting engineers, geotechnical engineering academics and researchers, and civil engineers and soil scientists.

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Book SynopsisBy 2050, the demand for water to sustain world agriculture will increase by seventy-five per cent in order to feed an estimated nine billion inhabitants. Increased amounts of water will be required for irrigation and for industrial and domestic use. Natural ecosystems will be threatened by the expansion of agricultural land and by a reduction in water availability, while climate change will exacerbate the situation. Management of available resources, particularly groundwater, will become more critical and aquifers will need to be managed for the benefit of all. These selected papers were first presented at the International Association of Hydrogeologists, Dijon 2006, and are divided into six themes: large aquifers, resource assessment; large aquifers, water salinity and evolution; karstic and carbonate aquifer systems; geothermal aquifer systems; aquifer contamination studies and aquifer monitoring systems and management. The volume also includes a short biography oTable of ContentsPart 1: A Tribute to Henry Darcy’s Legacy Part 2: The Measure of Permeability Part 3: Complex Hydrogeological Systems 1. Large Aquifers, Assessment of the Resource 2. Large Aquifers, Water Salinity and its Evolution with Exploitation 3. Karstic and Carbonate Aquifer Systems 4. Geothermal Aquifer Systems 5. Aquifer Contamination Studies 6. Aquifer Monitoring Systems and Management Rules

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Book SynopsisExcess water in the urban environment results in flooding,which causes structural damage, risks to personal safety and disruption to city life. Water is also a major contributory factor for disease transmission as well as being the medium for transport of many pollutants. These problems are of increasing concern due to climate changes and are particularly apparent in the humid tropics. Integrated Urban Water Management in the Humid Tropics â the output of a project by UNESCOâs International Hydrological Programme on the topic â focuses on engineering aspects related to water supply, wastewater and stormwater management in the humid tropics. Flood control is dealt with a specific emphasis on reducing vulnerability to flood disasters in urban areas.The book also addresses environmental health concerns related to the different components of the urban water system and strategies for their control. The volume provides illustrations of different aspects of integrated water management in tTable of Contents Integrated Urban Water Management; Water Supply and Wastewater Management; Stormwater management in the Tropics; Total solids management; Control of public health hazards related to urban water systems; Reducing vulnerability to disasters in urban areas of humid tropics; Integrated urban water management: institutional, legal and socioeconomic issues; Education & Capacity Building.

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Book SynopsisAround the world, many people live, work and recreate in river, estuarine and coastal areas, systems which are also important wildlife habitats. It is imperative to understand the physics of such systems. A key element here is morphodynamics: the mutual interaction and adjustment of landform topography and fluid dynamics involving the motion of sediment. The numerous interacting processes involved, such as large- and small-scale hydrodynamics, sediment transport dynamics, growth and decay of bed perturbations or larger bed forms, biological processes and human interferences make morphodynamics a challenging scientific issue. These proceedings bring together contributions from some 200 scientists from more than 20 countries and present and discuss the latest scientific research developments on this topic. In addition, five key-note papers are included that introduce the specific themes of the conference:- Relations between scales and long-term morphodynamics - Biogeomorpholog

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Book SynopsisLocal campaigns are the most persistent and ubiquitous forms of environmental contention. National and transnational mobilisations come and go and the attention they receive from mass media ebbs and flows, but local campaigns persist. The persistence or re-emergence of local campaigns is also a reminder that it remain possible to mobilise people around environmental issues, and they have often served as sources of innovation in and re-invigoration of national organisations that have allegedly been co-opted by the powerful and incorporated into the established political and administrative system. But local environmental campaigns have been relatively neglected in the scientific literature. Drawing on examples from Britain, France, Greece, Ireland and Italy, this book seeks to redress that neglect by examining the networks among actors and organisations that connect local mobilizations to the larger environmental movement and political systems, the ways in which local disputes are framed in order to connect with national and global issues, and the persistent impacts of the peculiarities of place upon environmental campaigns.This book was previously published as a special issue of Environmental PoliticsTrade Review'This is a very interesting volume that will be useful to researchers and students of social movements, particularly environmental mobilizations and campaigns.' - Social Movement Studies, Vol. 9, No. 1, 92, January 2010Table of Contents1. Introduction: Local Environmental Mobilizations 2. Still the Time of Environmental Movements? Environmental Organizational Fields in Britain and Italy 3. Local Contention, Global Framing: The Protest Campaigns against the TAV in Val de Susa and the Bridge on the Messina Straits 4. From Larzac to the Altermondialist Mobilization: Space in Environmental Movements 5. Networking the Local and the National: Environmental Activists and Campaigns in London 6. Local Environmental Protest in Greece 7. Environmental Direct Action Protests in Manchester, Oxford and North Wales 8. Resisting the Costs of ‘Development’: Local Environmental Activism in Ireland 9. Conclusion: Local Environmental Mobilisations in Context

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Book SynopsisSelected papers from the 'International Forum of Information Systems Frontiers — Xian International Symposium (IFISF, 29-30 June, 2006, Xian, China) and the 'IFIP TC 8.9 International Conference on Research and Practical Issues of Enterprise Information Systems' (Confenis 2007, 14-16 October 2007, Beijing, China).Table of ContentsPreface Advances in EIS Topics include:- Seven challenges for information system designers- Particle Swarm Optimization- E-commerce web usability evaluation on Chinese IT enterprise- Application of the SMS platform in rural informatization- Folksonomy and algorithm models for optimizing related tags- Research of intelligent IETM architecture based on polychromatic set- Affective virtual learning environments- Rural informatization research: The goals, developmental pattern and measure- Software outsourcing analysis based on game theory- Model of e-commerce application for the manufacturing SMEs of China

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Book SynopsisMathematics is a universal language. Differential equations, mathematical modeling, numerical methods and computation form the underlying infrastructure of engineering and the sciences. In this context mathematical modeling is a very powerful tool for studying engineering problems, natural systems and human society. This interdisciplinary book contains a comprehensive overview, including practical examples, of the progress achieved to date in the modeling of coupled phenomena, computational mathematics and mechanics, heat transfer, fluid-structure interactions, biomechanics, and the flow of mass and energy in porous media. Numerical subjects such as grid generation, optimization, finite elements, finite differences, spectral methods, boundary elements, finite volumes and meshless methods are also discussed in detail using real examples.The book provides a thorough presentation of the existing numerical techniques with specific applications to concrete, practical topics. The mTable of ContentsPREFACE - General Introduction to Coupled Phenomena. Karsten PruessPART 1. COMPUTATIONAL MATHEMATICS, MODELING AND NUMERICAL METHODS PART 2. COUPLED PROBLEMS IN FLUID-STRUCTURE INTERACTIONS AND IN HEAT TRANSFER PART 3. COMPUTATIONAL MECHANICS OF FLUIDS AND SOLIDS, MULTIPHYSICS, BIOMECHANICS PART 4. FLOW OF MASS AND ENERGY IN POROUS MEDIA PART 5. BOUNDARY ELEMENTS, SPECTRAL AND MESHLESS METHODS. NUMERICAL OPTIMIZATION.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in Subsurface Contamination of Porous Media: Indicators, Processes and Modelling provides a high level understanding of the processes concerning common and emergent contaminants through their passage from soil to groundwater. The book presents new methodologies and indicators to reach a better understanding of biogeochemical processes as a basis for environmental models. The combined use of the understanding of processes and modelsâ prognosis will inform researches and water managers and will provide the possibility for better management and preservation of water resources.The book will be a valuable reference for graduate students, researchers and professionals in government and public institutions, and for those interested in soil and groundwater contamination in various aspects.Table of ContentsKeynote lectures:- Multicomponent diffusion in clays- Modelling of solute mass transfer across the capillary fringe- Strategies to quantify contaminant degradation in groundwater using stable isotope dataAlternative methods and indicators of water quality in natural porous mediaBiogeochemical processes from soil to groundwaterNumerical simulation of pollutant transport and interaction in soil and subsoil

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisRecent developments in order to represent the material behaviour of filler-reinforced elastomers under realistic operating conditions are collected in this volume. Special topics are finite element simulations and methods, dynamic material properties, experimental characterization, lifetime prediction, friction, multiphysics and biomechanics, reinforcement, ageing, fracture and fatigue as well as micro- and macromechanical approaches. Constitutive Models for Rubber VI is of interest to research and development engineers in the industry, and to postgraduates and researchers in all disciplines of engineering and materials science.Table of ContentsForeword (Volume 1); Ageing; Accelerated ageing of polychloroprene for marine applications; Consideration of environmental influences on fatigue tests of elastomer components; Fatigue life prediction of aged natural rubber material; Computational methods FEM implementation; Continuum mechanical models; Dynamic properties and vibration; Experiments and characterisation; Fatigue and lifetime; Friction; Fracture and crack propagation; Industrial applications; Micro- and macromechanical approaches; Multiphics and biomechanics; Reinforcement; Stress softening.

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Book SynopsisComputational Vision and Medical Image Processing, VIPIMAGE 2009 contains the full papers presented at VIPIMAGE 2009 - Second ECCOMAS Thematic Conference on Computational Vision and Medical Image Processing, held in Porto, Portugal, on 14-16 October 2009. International contributions from twenty countries provide a comprehensive coverage of the current state-of-the-art in the fields of:Image Processing and Analysis;Tracking and Analyze Objects in Images;Segmentation of Objects in Images;3D Vision;Signal Processing;Data Interpolation, Registration, Acquisition and Compression;Objects Simulation;Virtual Reality;Software Development for Image Processing and Analysis;Computer Aided Diagnosis, Surgery, Therapy and Treatment;Computational Bioimaging and Visualization;Telemedicine Systems and their Applications.Related techniques covered in Computational Vision and Medical Image Processing, VIPITable of ContentsPreface; Invited lectures; Regular sessions; Thematic session on computer vision in robotics; Thematic session on imaging of biological flows trends and challenges; Thematic session on processing and classification of satellite imagery; Thematic session on small animal imaging trends and techniques; Thematic session on texture image analysis methods and applications

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Book SynopsisAdvanced materials are becoming increasingly important as substitutes for traditional materials and as facilitators for new and unique products. They have had a considerable impact on the development of a wide range of strategic technologies. Structural ceramics, biomaterials, composites and intermetallics fall under this category of advanced materials. There may be several additional materials in this category, but this book will only focus on these four types of materials.Even though some of these materials can be machined by conventional methods, material processing with lasers is an expanding field which is drawing attention of everyone in the industry as well as academics. As laser machining offers several advantages such as capabilities for machining the materials that are difficult to machine otherwise and flexibility and automation, the scope for applications of these advanced materials is further extended. Laser Machining of Advanced Materials focuses on the fundameTrade Review"[...] a valuable addition to the reference shelf of any practitioner of industrial laser materials processing. [...] extended, well-laid-out, and exemplified chapters on laser machining of ceramics, biomaterials, composites, and intermetallics, all supported by pages of pertinent references. These chapters are more than theory; they are backed with material that enables potential users to get a handle on the problems they are facing from practical experiences. [...] The authors have provided a service to those who are involved in processing advanced material." David Belfonte, Editor-in-Chief, Industrial Laser Solutions "Broadly, the book discusses a specific topic that is not deeply presented in other books. The section on laser machining of composite materials is very well written."Dr. Islam Shyha, Department of Mechanical and Construction Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Environment, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK"[...] a valuable addition to the reference shelf of any practitioner of industrial laser materials processing. [...] extended, well-laid-out, and exemplified chapters on laser machining of ceramics, biomaterials, composites, and intermetallics, all supported by pages of pertinent references. These chapters are more than theory; they are backed with material that enables potential users to get a handle on the problems they are facing from practical experiences. [...] The authors have provided a service to those who are involved in processing advanced material." David Belfonte, Editor-in-Chief, Industrial Laser Solutions "Broadly, the book discusses a specific topic that is not deeply presented in other books. The section on laser machining of composite materials is very well written."Dr. Islam Shyha, Department of Mechanical and Construction Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Environment, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UKTable of ContentsSymbols and Nomenclature. Advanced Materials. Machining of Advanced Materials. Laser Machining. Laser Machining of Structural Ceramics. Laser Machining of Biomaterials. Laser Machining of Composites. Laser Machining of Intermetallics.

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Book SynopsisGlobal Climatic Change (GCC) is changing the way we manage and maintain our concrete infrastructure. For the last 15 years CONSEC conferences have strived to bring experts on a common platform to discuss and disseminate international expertise with respect to performance of concrete under severe conditions. These conferences have closely followed the evolution of research in this area and have brought forward critical advances that are now been adopted worldwide. CONSECâ10 paid particular attention to new trends. Not only traditional themes, such as performance under severe environments and loading, concrete construction, codes and design, and maintenance and repairs, are included. Attention is also given to sustainability, high performance specialized materials, new NDT methods, and emerging fields such as structural health monitoring and sensing.The contributions in Concrete Under Severe Conditions show a clear accent on developing new technologies to reverse the trend in our decaying concrete infrastructure in both developed and emerging economies. This requirement has to be balanced with our need for sustainability, ecological preservation and environmental protection through the use of recycled materials and industrial by-products. Concrete Under Severe Conditions demonstrates the need for a continued dialogue and active cooperation between both developed and emerging economies to fully understand and deal with extreme environmental and loading issues on concrete infrastructure, and will be of interest to academics, engineers and professionals involved in concrete and concrete infrastructure.

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