On the classification and representation of ternary phase diagrams: The yin and yang of a T–x approach

Abstract

This article discusses some of the issues related to the classification and representation of ternary diagrams and how these can be incorporated into the more general framework of global phase diagrams. It is shown that the representation of binary mixtures in the form of T–x diagrams constitutes an insightful and logical approach to the problem of a systematic classification of fluid phase behaviour in terms of bifurcations (the yin and yang) and that the concept can be extended to the classification of ternary systems.