Making the modern world materials and dematerialization / Vaclav Smil.

Author/creator Smil, Vaclav
Format Electronic
Publication InfoChichester, West Sussex, United Kingdom : Wiley, 2014.
Descriptionxi, 229 pages ; 25 cm
Supplemental ContentFull text available from Ebook Central - Academic Complete
Subjects

Abstract "How much further should the affluent world push its material consumption? Does relative dematerialization lead to absolute decline in demand for materials? These and many other questions are discussed and answered in Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization.Over the course of time, the modern world has become dependent on unprecedented flows of materials. Now even the most efficient production processes and the highest practical rates of recycling may not be enough to result in dematerialization rates that would be high enough to negate the rising demand for materials generated by continuing population growth and rising standards of living. This book explores the costs of this dependence and the potential for substantial dematerialization of modern economies. Making the Modern World: Materials and Dematerialization considers the principal materials used throughout history, from wood and stone, through to metals, alloys, plastics, and silicon, describing their extraction and production as well as their dominant applications. The evolving productivities of material extraction, processing, synthesis, finishing, and distribution, and the energy costs and environmental impact of rising material consumption are examined in detail. The book concludes with an outlook for the future, discussing the prospects for dematerialization and potential constraints on materials.This interdisciplinary text will provide useful perspectives for readers with backgrounds including resource economics, environmental studies, energy analysis, mineral geology, industrial organization, manufacturing, and material science"-- Provided by publisher.
Abstract "Aiming to elucidate the complexity of material flows of modern societies, their prerequisites and their consequences"-- Provided by publisher.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographical references (pages 191-221) index.
Access restrictionAvailable only to authorized users.
Technical detailsMode of access: World Wide Web
Genre/formElectronic books.
LCCN 2013024672
ISBN9781119942535 (pbk.)

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Electronic Resources Access Content Online ✔ Available