Thermophysical properties: What have we learned recently, and what do we still need to know?

Abstract

Some recent developments in the areas of measurement, prediction, and correlation of thermophysical properties and phase behavior are reviewed. However. important problems remain, and some of these are not being addressed. Here a number of thermophysical properties problem areas are identified based on the prejudices of the author and a small survey of friends and colleagues in industry and academia. Many of the problems arise as result of changes in industrial emphasis, for example, from chemicals to materials and pharmaceuticals, changes in federal or local regulations permitting lower air and water emissions, changes in technology, and an interest in determining the fate of chemicals in the environment. Some of the research needs, both experimental and theoretical. to deal with these problems are discussed.