The Performance of Multiparameter Equations of State

Abstract

A detailed assessment of the performance of an equation of state is an ambitious task and requires a sound knowledge both of the features of the equation and of the data set which is available for the corresponding substance. The difficulties which are linked to such assessments become obvious where the performances of different equations of state have to be compared with each other to determine, e.g., accepted standards for the properties of a certain substance. Such detailed studies fill extensive reports (see for example Kilner and Craven, 1996; Klimeck et al., 1996) and cannot be replaced by general assessments in any way. However, on a more general level, equations of state can be assigned to different categories and typical features can be described for equations which belong to a certain category. This approach is useful for inexperienced users, since it helps convey what can be expected from a certain kind of equation of state in general; the user understands the restrictions of the applied equations of state and more detailed investigations on crucial features may follow where necessary.