Process Dynamics and Fractal Analysis of New Phase Formation in Thermal Processes

Boiling and fouling are taken as typical examples of new phase formation process to be analyzed and discussed in this paper. The process dynamics of nucleate boiling is analyzed and its mechanism is discussed from the view point of self-organization. Fouling, which is a more complicated phenomenon of new phase formation, involves series of underlying processes. The morphology and fractal analysis of fouling on low-energy surface and that with fouling inhibitors are studied and discussed. It is suggested that considering the process dynamics, fractal analysis and self-organization, a new avenue of research should be found.