Metals

Abstract

Metals and alloys have been important to mankind for several millenniums, and have played a decisive role in technological evolution. Periods of evolution are named after metals (Bronze Age, Iron Age). More sophisticated methods enabled man to create higher temperatures and apply more complex chemical processes to convert ores into pure metals. The Machine Age was characterised by the large-scale production of train tracks and steam boilers of consistently high quality. © 2009 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.