To use materials effectively, their composition, physical and mechanical characteristics, and microstructure must be accurately determined. The second edition of this concise encyclopledia covers the wide range of characterization techniques necessary to achieve this. With over 130 articles taken from the award-winning 'Encyclopedia of Materials: Science and Technology', containing revisions and updates not available in the original set, this concise encyclopedia is an ideal quick reference for materials scientists, chemists and engineers. Extensive topical coverage, from traditional methods to the very latest in research. Includes ScienceDirect updates and revisions not available in the original 'Encyclopedia of Materials: Science and Technology' Over 500 illustrations, extensive cross-referencing, and a detailed index.