ATOMIC TRANSPORT IN SOLIDS - MODELS AND THEIR PARAMETERIZATION

This paper reviews the structure of the modern theory of atomic transp ort in solids. It starts with the macroscopic equations of non-equilib rium thermodynamics and then proceeds to the methods offered by statis tical mechanics for the evaluation of transport coefficients, etc. The application of these methods to stochastic models is then considered in both general terms and for particular models suggested by the theor y of lattice imperfections. These particular examples include isotherm al diffusion in dilute and concentrated solid solutions and also trans port in temperature gradients. The value of solid state theory in the parameterization of these models is emphasised.