**Preface to "Cast Irons"**

As a researcher and materials engineer, I have dedicated all my professional life, from 2000 to today, to the study of the intrinsic correlation between materials, process parameters and properties, since I believe that it is the key to better understanding the behaviour of materials, and the basis of excellent mechanical design. Due to their great technological importance, a significant part of my research has been focused on the study of cast irons. In particular, in recent years, I have focused on the mechanical characterization of heavy section ductile irons and new generation cast irons, to which I have also dedicated a research doctorate. Thanks to the journal Metals, I have had the privilege of managing the Special Issue 'Cast Irons: Properties and Applications', that is aimed at deepening the material–process–properties correlation of this extremely important family of alloys. The good news is that, right now, that Special Issue is becoming a book. The topics covered in the various chapters range from the study of technological properties, such as wear resistance and weldability, to both static and fatigue mechanical properties. Each chapter was written by excellent professionals and experienced researchers in the field. The book is addressed to PhD students, engineers, designers, researchers and professionals who need to deepen the above-mentioned important material–process–properties correlation applied to cast iron of different grades. I hope that the reader could appreciate this book and find in it what he is looking for.

> **Paolo Ferro** *Editor*
