Engineering Science and Materials Commons^™

Naturally occurring iron oxides were used since ancient times as ochre yellow and red pigments. It was only in the 18th century that artificially prepared Prussian blue was discovered. This discovery opened up a new field of chemistry - - cyano compounds.

Travelling scientists certainly have contributed to advancing knowledge by communicating their observations to others. Famous professors attract students from different countries to study in their institutions and the interaction among these students is of immense importance in the diffusion of knowledge. The invention of a process for the production of aluminum is an example.

Mining and Civilization has been conceived to compliment the author's two books History of Metallurgy and Readings in Historical Metallurgy and to fill a gap in the literature. It is difficult to study the history of metallurgy without studying the history of mining at the same time. Each time the author visits ancient ruins or examines an ancient stone statue he recalls the work of miners who brought the material from a quarry so that the sculptor can create a work of art. History of mining, quarrying, and stone carving is history of civilization.

Gold, the first metal used by man, has a special place among metals. It plays an important role in society and in world economics. It caused unprecedented mass migrations on three continents, and at least one war. It was responsible for creating many large cities, is highly prized, has been the inspiration of numerous myths, was the ultimate goal of alchemists, stored in the vaults of banks, widely on display in oriental bazaars, and is generously used in decorating churches and temples. The present volume is composed of two parts: a collection of selected papers published by the author on …