Topological characteristics for isobaric multicomponent phase diagrams constrained by paraequilibrium

Paraequilibrium is a kinetically-constrained equilibrium state, in which the chemical potentials of mobile elements are equivalent, while immobile elements are too sluggish to partition upon phase transformation. Such constraints impose special topological characteristics on isobaric multicomponent phase diagrams, thereby making related studies more challenging from the fundamental point of view. This work is established to provide a comprehensive and in-depth study on their thermodynamic basis, topological implications and phase diagram characteristics. The knowledge provided will be indispensible to address theoretical and industrial conundrums in phase transformations that can be treated in the framework of paraequilibrium. (C) 2013 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.