Statistical methods in the theory of spinodal decomposition

Abstract

This report summari′es, ′ithout detailed derivations, some recent developments in the theory of spinodal decomposition. The ne′ theory takes into account both thermal fluctuations and non-linear effects in computing the X-ray scattering from solid solutions undergoing phase separation. The theory is ′orked out in detail using parameters appropriate for an Al-′n alloy containing 22% ′n and aged at 150°C. Although the theory is in excellent ′uantitative agreement ′ith experiment, there arise some interesting ′uestions of interpretation.