What's New in FactSage 8.4

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www.FactSage.com

This page is updated regularly - press reload/refresh for the latest version

(revised February 15, 2025)

FactSage 8.4 is a major update.

The update includes extensive modifications to several of the databases. For example, the databases FactPS, FToxid, FTsalt, FTlite, FScopp, FSlead, FSstel and SpMCBN have been updated. In addition two new databases have been added: FTionx - the FACT Ionic Organics Databases - and SGTE(2024).

Also there are extensive modifications to the Apps and Add-ons Menu including new process simulation software.

The FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation enables you to install FactSage 8.4 into a new folder or on to a new computer.

The changes in FactSage 8.4 are compatible with FactSage 8.0 - 8.3 but they are not backward compatible with earlier versions (7.3 and prior). You can install FactSage 8.4 as either a new installation or simply update an existing FactSage 8.0 - 8.3 installation.

The total number of files is now over 20,000 (was 19,000).

What follows is a list of the more important programming, database and documentation changes in FactSage 8.4 (2025) with respect to FactSage 8.3 (2023).

1.  General:

2.  Apps: 3.  Add-Ons 4.  Databases: 5.  Previous FactSage Updates



1.  General:

  • FactSage 8.4 News
      Important!
      After installation you should periodically check the latest news about FactSage 8.4 where we immediately report any 'bugs' and other issues as they surface.

      You can display this latest news - in the FactSage Main Menu click
      'Information > FactSage 8.4 ~ News ~ from www.FactSage.com ...'

      Alternatively visit www.FactSage.com > 'FactSage 8.4 ~ News ~'

      FactSage 8.4
      ~ News ~

  • FactSage Start-up


  • FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation/Menu
    • Download FactSage 8.4 - The FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation program contains the complete 8.4 package of software, databases and documentation. It can be downloaded from the Internet in two different ways.
      1. Download FactSage 8.4 via FactSage 8.3

      In the FactSage 8.3 Main Menu Window click
      Tools > FactSage Updates > Download the complete FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation Package .

      If you are entitled to FactSage 8.4 the file CD-FactSage84.exe (approx. size 450 MB) will be downloaded to the downloads folder. Typically this takes 10 - 20 minutes or even longer.

      2. Download via www.factsage.com

      For details visit www.factsage.com and click 'Download Service' and then 'FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation'.

      For certain installations it may not be possible to download the file - for example you may get an error message such as 'webpage cannot be found'. This could be because the security settings on your computer are blocking the transfer of a ".exe" file or the file is too large to be downloaded. Check with your IT group.

    • FactSage Installation - The FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation program is a one-stage installation and update program. The program runs a self extractor that automatically performs the extraction operation before starting the installation. You must not upgrade any FactSage 7.0 - 7.3 currently installed on your computer. Rather you should install FactSage 8.4 into a new folder or upgrade any FactSage 8.0 - 8.3 currently installed on your computer See below (Update/Refresh FactSage 8.4) for more details.

    • Show Me - For details on FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation refer to the Show Me documentation. FactSage 8.4 may be installed as

      • Standalone Single User- the complete FactSage package will be installed on the computer. The program cannot be accessed by other computers. The Standalone computer requires a security key (dongle) attached to a USB port.
      • Network Server- the complete FactSage package will be installed on the computer in a public folder that is 'share read-only' to other computers on the network. The files can be read and copied by other computers (Network Clients). In a small network of several computers the FactSage Network Server can be any computer, but not a virtual machine.
      • Network Client - only the FactSage modules and databases will be installed on the computer. The computer will have access to the documentation, example, figure, etc. files already installed in FactSage on the Network Server.

    • Server/Client Installation - For a client installation on the network, the program FactSageClient enables the Client workstation to locate the Server installation. The program is run prior to the FactSage 8.4 setup program and is well-suited for Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Windows 11 installations. Details are given in ShowMe which is part of the installation package.

    • Server/Client Update - If the FactSage Client is already running FactSage on a network installation and the Server installation is then updated (for example a new version or new databases), the Client installation will not be updated until a new day. This default action can be overridden - to immediately update FactSage on the Client workstation, in the FactSage Main Menu of the client PC click on 'Tools > FactSage Network > Refresh Client installation ...'.

    • Windows 10 and Windows 11
      Minimum System Requirements: Equivalent to the minimum system requirements for running Microsoft Windows 10 operating system.
      Recommended System Requirements: Microsoft Windows 10 or above; CPU: Intel Core i7 2.8 GHz (or an equivalent AMD processor) or better: RAM: 16 GB or more: Storage: 7200 RPM or better HDD or SSD.

    • Sentinel HASP Drivers - FactSage MemoHASP dongles are more recently referred to as the Sentinel LDK security keys. The dongles are supplied by THALES. FactSage 8.4 employs installation software from SafeNet Inc. and it is fairly straight forward to install the drivers. For instructions click on 'Tools > Sentinel Security Key > Information ...'

    • FactSage dongle status - When a valid FactSage dongle is attached to a USB port on the computer you are able to run a standalone version of FactSage. If FactSage issues an error message about a 'missing or invalid FactSage security key' it goes into the FactSage SetUp mode with a green screen. There are several factors that can cause this to happen.

      The FactSage dongle status displays the status of the FactSage dongle attached to the computer. This helps you to diagnose the source of the error message.

      • Run FactSage 8.4 and display the FactSage Main Menu.

      • Click 'Tools > FactSage dongle status > Explanation of dongle status... ' and follow the instructions.

      The 'FactSage dongle status' Window shown here is for an installation where a valid FactSage dongle is attached and everything is in order (i.e. 1 - 5. All OK).



  • Update/Refresh FactSage 8.4

    The FactSage 8.4 Installation program enables you to update/refresh FactSage 8.4 software, documentation and databases to the full FactSage 8.4 package.

    You can upgrade FactSage 8.0 - 8.3 to FactSage 8.4 but you must not upgrade any FactSage 7.0 - 7.3 currently installed on your computer.

    You can update/refresh a FactSage Standalone computer or a Network Server. In the case of a network installation it is only necessary to update/refresh the Network Server.



  • Updates

    • FactSage 8.4 Updates - this online service was first introduced in FactSage 7.3 and it has worked well. It has been enhanced in FactSage 8.4.

      If your computer has access to the Internet you can use FactSage 8.4 to download and update various FactSage files from www.factsage.com.

      In the FactSage Main Menu click Tools > FactSage Updates to display the following options:

      • Information on updates ...
            - for details on the following options

      • Check for updates ...
            - to list the files that can be updated

      • 1. Update Profiles84.ini ...
            - to update/refresh your FactSage 8.4 expiration dates
        This avoids the necessity to manually download and install an updated Profiles84.ini.
        (Note, this update operation can now be done automatically - see Automatically update Profiles84.ini below).

      • 2. Update FactSage 8.4 patches ...
            - this is no longer offered due to issues with anti-virus software and firewalls.

      • 3. Download the complete FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation Package ...
            - the most recent FactSage 8.4 Package (CD-FactSage84.exe) with the latest profiles file, Profiles84.ini.

      • 4. Download the complete FactSage 8.4 Update/Installation Package ...
            - this will be available after FactSage 8.4 has been released at a future date.


      • Automatically update Profiles84.ini
            - when necessary the latest Profiles84.ini is updated and the FactSage 8.4 expiration dates are automatically refreshed. Any new special database FSstel, FTlite, SpMCBN, etc. and dongle will be refreshed at the same time.
        This is the recommended setting.

      • Do NOT automatically update Profiles84.ini
        - in order to update Profiles84.ini you must first select Check for updates ... and then select 1. Update Profiles84.ini.
        This setting is not recommended.


      For the updating to succeed the following conditions must be satisfied:

        - your computer has access to www.factsage.com
        - you are running FactSage 8.4 as a standalone or server installation i.e. not network client installation


    • FactSage 8.4 Updates - automatic update of Profiles84.ini

      When you first run FactSage 8.4 the program tries to connect to www.factsage.com and check if your installation has the latest Profiles84.ini.

      If you have checked Automatically update Profiles84.ini the latest profiles file is downloaded and installed. In such a case you are notified that the following operations will be performed:

    • - the expiration dates will be refreshed
    • - any new dongle will be activated
    • - new databases will be installed/updated.
    • All of these actions will be done automatically. After updating the profiles file it is not necessary for you to quit FactSage and refresh the installation.

    • FactSage 8.4 Updates - automatic notification - this is as before

      When you first run FactSage 8.4 the program tries to connect to www.factsage.com and check if your installation has the latest special databases and patches.

      If you have checked Automatically update Profiles84.ini the latest profiles file is downloaded and installed as shown above.

      However, if you have NOT checked
      Automatically update Profiles84.ini
      when necessary an 'Updates are ready.' message is posted in the FactSage Main Menu.

  • FactSage 8.4 Setup Files
      This was first introduced in FactSage 8.0 and has been updated. Each time FactSage 8.4 is run a check is performed to make sure the important installation files (principally *.exe and *.dll) have not been inadvertently deleted.

      When an important file is missing you will be made aware of the problem.

      For more information on missing or blocked files refer to Anti-virus software and firewalls

  • FactSage Slide Shows and FactSage Applications - 'Information > Slide Shows ...' and 'Information > FactSage Applications ...'

  • Miscellaneous

    The following important items were presented in FactSage 8.3.

    The following are items new to FactSage 8.4.

    - - - - UNDER CONSTRUCTION - - - -



    2.  Apps:

  • Information

    • FactSage - getting started ... - called from 'Information > FactSage - getting started ...'.

      This was first introduced in FactSage 8.2 to help new users get started with FactSage and to help experienced users select the databases. It has been well-received and remains unchanged. For more details refer to FactSage 8.2 - getting started.


  • Documentation - FactSage Browser
    • In FactSage 8.4 the total number of stored phase diagrams has been increased by over ***.

      - UNDER CONSTRUCTION

      - to be completed only when all databases and their files are finished.


  • View Data

    • What's New in View Data - 'View Data > Help > What's New in View Data ...'

      The link What's New in View Data has been updated and gives a summary of the more important programming changes in View Data that have appeared since FactSage 6.1 (2009) until now FactSage 8.4 (2025).



      The new FactSage 8.4 database FTionx (see below) contains compounds with virtual elements Qa, Qb ...

      View Data has been modified so that the 'Summary' drop down menu can list the species by virtual element.

      For more details click Virtual Elements

      The virtual elements provide a useful means of applying constraints to certain equilibrium calculations as presented in Virtual Elements - Equilib and Virtual Elements - Phase Diagram.

      ViewData of the FTionx compound database with the 'Summary' drop down menu listing the species with virtual elements. .


  •   Equilib

    • What's New in Equilib - 'Equilib > Reactants Window > Help > What's New in Equilib ...'

      The link What's New in Equilib has been updated and gives a summary of the more important programming changes in Equilib that have appeared since FactSage 6.1 (2009) until now FactSage 8.4 (2025).


    • Alloy grades - 'Equilib > Reactants Window > Edit > Select an Alloy Grade ...'

      This new feature in FactSage 8.4 enables you to select and define the composition of an industrial grade alloy of aluminum, copper, magnesium, etc.

      Details are given in the Equilib - Advanced Features Slide Show in the new section 16 Selection of an Industrial Grade Alloy (pdf file)

      In the Equilib Reactants Window click 'Edit > Select an Alloy Grade ...' to display the Alloy Grades Window.

      Then select the alloy, for example Copper alloys, then the grade (brass, bronze , casting ...) and finally define the composition.

      When defining the composition of the alloy a Help panel is posted.

      For example, in the aluminum 2024 grade alloy above the wt.% Mn 5 is highlighted because the composition is outsde the recommended range 0.3 - 0.8 wt.% Mn.

      When editing is finished you must decide if you want this composition grade to be saved as a "mixture" (*.mixt file) which can then be imported in the "Reactants Window" at any time. If the compostion is not saved as a "mixture" it will be simply imported into the "Reactants Window" as the reactants listed here.

      Also you must decide if you wish to include 0 wt% elements (Cr, Si, Ti, Zn) in the list of element compositions.

      When ready click on "OK" to save the system or click "Cancel" to quit. When done you will returned to the Reactants Window.


    • Macro Processing

      The link What's New in Macro Processing has been updated and gives a summary of the more important programming changes in Macro Processing that have appeared since FactSage 6.1 (2009) until now FactSage 8.4 (2025).

      • 'Equilib > Reactants Window > File > Macro Processing > Edit macro ...'

        In FactSage 8.4 a new Macro Editor is available.

        The editor includes the traditional File (Open, Open recent, Save, Save as, etc.) and Edit (Undo, Copy, Paste, Fine, Find next, etc.) drop down menus.

        With the Macro Editor the macro commands, functions and varibles are displayed in a variety of colors selected by the user. This much improves the readability of the macro and interpretation of the program flow.

        In addition there is the option to Run Macro without having to exit the editor.

        Frr more details consult the - Macro Editor Slide Show.


    • FactOptimal

        The following are new developments in FactOptimal 8.4

      • Simplified user interface :
        - the user interface has been simplified to display only the most commonly used features.
        Advanced features are still available by clicking on the new menu item "View".

      • Improved calculation speed :
        - a new "fast calculation" option is available in the Parameters tab to improve calculation speed.


  •   Phase Diagram


  •   OptiSage - Calphad Optimizer



    3.  Add-ons

    Add-ons Menu

    Add-ons are not part the regular FactSage package but rather are additional Apps that are offered for free to users who have current Maintenance and Service, M&S. Access to the Add-ons is only available while the M&S is valid. That is, access to the Add-ons will not be available when the M&S has expired, although a grace period of a few months may be added.

    For detailed information refer to Add-ons, apps and shortcuts in FactSage 8.4 .


    In FactSage 8.4 the Add-ons Menu has been expanded with new process simulation packages:

      FactFlow process simulator package

      FactProSim process simulator package


    3.1 FactFlow process simulator package

        - in the FactSage 8.4 Main Menu Window click 'Add-ons > FactFlow process simulation ...'

    FactFlow is a new FactSage Add-on developed by the CRCT team in Montreal to perform process simulation of pyrometallurgical processes. Many FactSage customers have reported their desire to perform series of complex equilibrium calculations using a graphical interface to maximize the user experience when it comes to streams handling and stream recycling.

    Traditionally, these stream-related tasks were sequentially performed in the Equilib module often employing macro processing. This is time-consuming and difficult to automate.

    For these reasons, we implemented the powerful graphical interface called FactFlow which allows one to fully exploit the FactSage databases. For detailed information refer to

    The screenshots below illustrate four pyrometallurgical processes which have been built using the FactFlow interface.

    For more information please contact Prof. J.P. Harvey (j-p.harvey@polymtl.ca) or email the FactFlow team at factflow@polymtl.ca

    Ferrosilicon production via an electrical arc furnace.


    Primary production of copper from sulfides including recycling of waste

    Primary production of titanium using the Kroll process


    Simulation of the midrex process to account for
    the partial substitution of methane by hydrogen.


    3.2 FactProSim process simulator package

        - in the FactSage 8.4 Main Menu Window click 'Add-ons > FactProSim process simulation ...'

    - FactProSim Manual (pdf file)

    FactProSim, a new platform for process simulation provided with FactSage 8.4, is designed to assist the development of process simulations based on the local equilibrium concept using the Effective Equilibrium Reaction Zone (EERZ) model.

    FactProSim uses an intuitive flowsheet diagram approach to model the process with modules, which interact with each other through the flow of materials. It is designed with a drag-and-drop approach, providing a user-friendly interface with no coding required. FactProSim has four simple modules to create the process flowsheet of any complex reactor.

    FactProSim offers the possibility to enter various inputs in the flowsheet modules (such as material composition, amount and temperature, equilibrium calculation conditions, etc.) through spreadsheets by linking one or several Microsoft Excel spreadsheets to a flowsheet. Furthermore, the output of the simulation is also saved in Microsoft Excel spreadsheets to provide a convenient way to analyze and represent the output data.

    Several flowsheet examples can be found in the folder \FactProSim\Projects.







    3.3 Process simulator databases

    Both FactFlow and FactProSim packages have access to the suite of FactSage databases.


    3.4 Why there are two process simulation packages

    For many years we wanted to develop a process simulation package that would provide a powerful interactive graphical interface to replace Equilib and macro processing.

    Two groups, one at the CRCT, Montreal, Canada and the other at the High Temperature Thermochemistry Laboratory - Seoul National University, Korea were eager to take on the challenge. It would have been ideal if they could work together, but the huge difference in location and time between the two groups, as well as a difference in philosophy, made such a joint collaboration impossible.

    So we decided to encourage both groups to work on the development with the objective of only promoting one package when done.

    It turned out both packages exceeded our expectations. Both are being promoted since each one offers a unique approach. Here is a summary of the particular features of each package.

    - - - - UNDER CONSTRUCTION - - - -



    4.  Databases:


       The link What's New in the Databases has been updated and gives a summary of the more important programming changes in all the databases that have appeared since FactSage 6.1 (2009) until now FactSage 8.4 (2025).

       In the FactSage Main Menu Window click Documentation for detailed information on the public compound and solution databases.

  • Data Search Window - Equilib / Phase Diagram > Data Search Menu

    The following new options have recently been added to Data Search Window.

    Import TDB databases - this option, introduced in FactSage 8.3, enables you to import a Thermochemical Database (TDB) format database to the 'List of databases' posted in the Data Search Window.

    Private databases in \PRIVDATA - this option, introduced in FactSage 8.3, applies to all private compound (*.cdb) and solution (*.sln,*.fdb) databases that are stored in the \PRIVDATA folder (typically c:\FactSage\PRIVDATA). These databases are automatically registered and added to the 'List of databases' posted in the Data Search Window.

    The old manual way is still available (click 'Add/Remove Data > Add > filename etc.') but storing the files in the \PRIVDATA folder avoids performing this manual task.

    FTionx databases - this option, new in FactSage 8.4, offers FTionx - the new FACT Ionic Organics Databases


  • FactPS - the FACT Pure Substances Compound Database

    • FactPS is the compound database for use with the FACT 8.4 databases (FToxid, FTsalt, etc.).

    • In FactPS the following 165 new compounds have been added :
      C7H10NBr, C7H10NCl, C7H13N2PF6, C8H15N2Cl, C8H15N3O3, C8H18NPF6, C9H14NBr, C9H14NCl, C9H14NPF6, C9H18N2SO3, C9H20NBF4, C9H20NBr, C9H20NCl, C9H20NPF6, Ca2SnO4, Ca3SnSi2O9, CaSnO3, CaSnSiO5, Co11Ce24, Co13La, Co17Ce2, Co17Dy2, Co17Er2, Co17Gd2, Co17Ho2, Co17La20, Co17Lu2, Co17Nd2, Co17Pr2, Co17Pr20, Co17Sm2, Co17Tb2, Co17Tm2, Co17Y2, Co17Yb2, Co19Ce5, Co19La5, Co19Nd5, Co19Pr5, Co19Sm5, Co2Ce, Co2Dy, Co2Er, Co2Gd, Co2Ho, Co2Lu, Co2Nd, Co2Nd5, Co2Pr, Co2Pr5, Co2Sc, Co2Sm, Co2Sm5, Co2Tb, Co2Tm, Co2Y, Co2Yb, Co3Ce, Co3Dy, Co3Dy4, Co3Er, Co3Er4, Co3Gd, Co3Gd4, Co3Ho, Co3Ho4, Co3La2, Co3Lu, Co3Lu4, Co3Nd, Co3Nd2, Co3Nd4, Co3Pr, Co3Pr4, Co3Sm, Co3Tb, Co3Tb4, Co3Tm, Co3Tm4, Co3Y, Co3Y2, Co3Y4, Co3Yb, Co5Ce, Co5Dy, Co5Er, Co5Gd, Co5Ho, Co5La, Co5Nd, Co5Pr, Co5Sm, Co5Tb, Co5Tm, Co5Y, Co5Y8, Co7Ce2, Co7Dy12, Co7Dy2, Co7Er12, Co7Er2, Co7Gd2, Co7Ho12, Co7Ho2, Co7La2, Co7Nd2, Co7Pr2, Co7Sm2, Co7Tb12, Co7Tb2, Co7Tm2, Co7Y2, Co7Y6, CoDy3, CoEr3, CoGd3, CoHo3, CoLa3, CoLu3, CoNd3, CoPr3, CoSc, CoSc2, CoSc3, CoSm3, CoTb3, CoY, CoY3, Fe4Si2Sn7O16, Gd12Co7, K2Cr2O7, K2Fe12O19, K2FeO2, K2FeSi3O8, K2FeSi5O12, K2FeSiO4, K2Hg3Cl8, K2HgCl4, K2Mo2O7, K2MoO4, K2S2O7, K3Na(MoO4)2, K4Fe4Si3O14, K4FeO3, KFe11O17, KFeSi2O6, KFeSi3O8, KFeSiO4, KHg7Cl15, KHgCl3, Mg2SnO4, MgSnO3, Na14Zr2Si10O31, Na2Cr2O7, Na2HgCl4, Na2Mo2O7, Na2S2O7, Na2ZrO3, Na2ZrSi2O7, Na2ZrSi4O11, Na2ZrSiO5, Na3ClMoO4, Na4Zr2Si3O12, Sn3O4, Zn2SnO4.

    • In FactPS the following 12 compounds have been updated:
      AlB2, AlB12, Al4C3, Al3BC, Al8C7B4, K2CrO4, K2PbCl4, KPb2Cl5, Hg2Cl2, Na2MoO4, Na2CrO4, PbCl2.

      The FactPS 8.4 exclusion file has been updated. The file is consulted when a given compound is listed in more than one database. For example MgSnO3, Mg2SnO4, Na2S2O7, ... (see above) are oxides that have been added to FactPS 8.4 and these compounds are also stored in FToxid. When FactPS and FToxid databases are selected, if a user selects say all solids in the Equilib Menu Window, the exclusion file will avoid a duplicate selection by only selecting the FToxid compounds. This is a simple example with oxides where the selection priority is obvious.

      But when more than one FACT compound database is selected and it involves say metals, alloys, oxides, salts, etc. there is a priority among competing databases that may not be not so evident. This is where the exclusion file plays an important role in avoiding the duplicate selection of compounds.

      In FactPS 8.4 there are 91 elements with a total of 5203 compounds (was 5038 in 8.3) and 7373 phases (was 7167).


  • FTdemo - the FACT Demonstration Database

    • FTdemo is the name for the old FACT Slide Show database developed around 2001. Although FTdemo is part of FACT Package of Databases, it is for demonstration calculations only. It should be used only for teaching - for example with the Slide Shows.

    • For calculations where the results are important, you must NOT use the FTdemo database. Use the FactPS compound database and the FToxid, FTsalt, etc. databases. For detailed information on the FactPS, FToxid, FTsalt, etc. databases go to the FactSage Main Menu and click on Documentation.


  • FToxid - the FACT Oxide Database

      The FToxid databases contain data for pure oxides and oxide solutions of over 20 elements as well as for dilute solutions of S, SO4, PO4, H2O/OH, CO3, F, Cl and I in the molten (slag) phase. FToxid 8.4 is included in the FACT 8.4 package of databases.

      In FactSage 8.4 the updates to FToxid include the following:

      • New optimizations of K+Fe containing systems:
        K2O-FeO-Fe2O3-Al2O3-SiO2

      • New optimizations of Sn-containing systems:
        SnO-SnO2 + MgO-CaO-FeO-Fe2O3-Al2O3-SiO2, SnO-SnO2-SiO2-ZnO, SnO2-ZrO2-TiO2

      • New optimizations of Zr+Na containing systems:
        ZrO2-Na2O-CaO-Al2O3-SiO2

      • Two new solid solutions have been added to the database:
        (Zr,Ti,Sn)O2 orthorhombic solution and Sn-spinel

      • Several other solid solutions have been expanded:
        Nepheline (KFeSi3O8 added); Leucite (KFeSi2O6 added); high-T Kalsilite (KFeSiO4 added); high-T and low-T KAlO2-K2MgSiO4 solutions (KFeO2 added); Rutile and Corundum (SnO2 added); cubic, tetragonal amd monoclinic ZrO2 (SnO2 and TiO2 added)

      • 25 new stoichiometric compounds have been added and a few others have been modified.

      Complete details on FToxid 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in the updated Documentation in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


  • FTsulf - the FACT Sulfide Database was introduced in FactSage 8.2

      FTsulf 8.4 has been refreshed and is included in the FACT 8.4 package of databases.


  • FTsalt - the FACT Salt Database

      The FTsalt databases contain data for pure salts and salt solutions of 29 main cations:

        Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Mn, Al, Fe(II), Fe(III), Co, Ni, Zn, Pb, La, Ce, Th, U(III), U(IV), Pu(III), Pu(IV), Cr(II), Cr(III), Mo(V), Hg, Hg2

      and 15 main anions:

        F, Cl, Br, I, NO2, NO3, ClO4, OH, CO3, SO4, S2O7, CrO4, Cr2O7, MoO4, Mo2O7 as well as for dilute solutions of O2- and OH- in the molten salt phase.

      In FactSage 8.4 the updates to FTsalt include the following

      • In the compound FTsalt database new compounds Na2S2O7, K2S2O7(s1,s2), Na2Cr2O7(s1,s2), K2Cr2O7(s1,s2), Na2MoO4(s1,s2,s3,s4), Na2Mo2O7(s1,s2), K2MoO4(s1,s2,s3), K2Mo2O7(s1,s2), Na3ClMoO4, K3Na(MoO4)2, Na2HgCl4, KHgCl3, K2HgCl4, K2Hg3Cl8 and KHg7Cl15 have been added and existing compounds Na2CrO4, K2CrO4, PbCl2, K2PbCl4, KPb2Cl5 and Hg2Cl2 have been modified. In addition compressibility expressions (as a function of temperature) have been added for the following pure liquid salts: BeCl2, BeF2, SrF2, BaF2, CaBr2, SrBr2, BaBr2, MgI2, CaI2, SrI2, BaI2, Rb2CO3, Cs2CO3, NaNO2, KNO2, Rb2SO4, and Cs2SO4.

        Also, compressibility expressions (as a function of temperature) have been modified for the following pure liquid salts: LiCl, NaCl, KCl, RbCl, CsCl, MgCl2, CaCl2, SrCl2, BaCl2, LiF, NaF, KF, RbF, CsF, MgF2, CaF2, LiBr, NaBr, KBr, RbBr, CsBr, MgBr2, LiI, NaI, KI, RbI, CsI, Li2CO3, Na2CO3, K2CO3, LiNO3, NaNO3, KNO3, RbNO3, CsNO3, Li2SO4, Na2SO4, K2SO4, LiOH, NaOH, and KOH.

        In the solution FTsalt database new liquid solutions SALTN (Na, K // Cl, CO3, SO4, S2O7, CrO4, Cr2O7, MoO4, Mo2O7, O - diluted in oxides), SALTO (Na, K, Zn, Pb // Cl) and SALTP (Na, K, Hg, Hg2 // Cl) have been added. In the case of SALTN, the model for the Na, K // Cl, CO3, SO4, S2O7 sub-system is identical to that in the FTpulp database. In addition seven new solid solutions have been introduced : one pyrosulfate solid solution (KPyr), one pyrosulfate/dichromate solid solution (Na2S2O7), two dichromate/dimolybdate solid solutions (K2Cr2O7 and Na2Cr2O7), and three molybdate/chromate/sulfate solid solutions (K2MoO4(s3), Na2MoO4(s1) and Na2MoO4(s2)). Several solid solutions have been extended : addition of the CrO4[2-] and MoO4[2-] anions to the solid solutions Dbeta-K2SO4, alpha-K2SO4, Glaserite, and Na2SO4-V; addition of the CO3[2-] and MoO4[2-] anions to the Na2CrO4 solid solution; and addition of the SO4[2-] anion to the solid solutions gamma-Na2CO3 and beta-Na2CO3.

        The SALTN (Na, K // Cl, CO3, SO4, S2O7, CrO4, Cr2O7, MoO4, Mo2O7, O - diluted in oxides) liquid solution is the only FTsalt molten salt solution containing A2MO4 and / or A2M2O7 (with A = Na, K and M = Cr, Mo). The SALTO (Na, K, Zn, Pb // Cl) liquid solution is the only FTsalt molten salt solution containing both ZnCl2 and PbCl2. The SALTP (Na, K, Hg, Hg2 // Cl) liquid solution is the only FTsalt molten salt solution containing HgCl2.

      The total number of stored FTsalt phase diagrams is now 419 (was 377 in 8.3). FTsalt 8.4 is included in the FACT 8.4 package of databases.

      Complete details on FTsalt 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in Documentation in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


  • FTmisc - the FACT Miscellaneous Database

      The FTmisc databases contain data for a variety of sulfides, alloys, etc. The databases includes dilute alloys of Fe-liquid, Pb-liquid, Sn-liquid, Cu-liquid, Cd-liquid, Te-liquid, Sb-liquid, Se-liquid, SeTe-liquid, SbPb-liquid and PbSb-liquid each with a limited number of components, valid over limited composition ranges

      In FTmisc 8.3 the MAT2 liquid sulfide/metal solution, and all solid solutions and stoichiometric compounds compatible was moved to the new FTsulf 8.3 database.

      For the matte smelting system (S-Cu-Fe-Ni-Co-Pb-Zn-As), the remaining sulfide solid solutions and stoichiometric compounds are compatible with liquid matte [FTmisc-MATT]. This system has been superseded by the new FTsulf 8.3 database, which provides equally good or better results for most applications.

      In FTmisc 8.4 the liquid steel solution FTmisc-FeLq has been updated:

        New components Sr and Cs have been added, and the interaction parameter C-Ti has been changed.

      Complete details on FTmisc 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in Documentation.


  • FTionx - the FACT Ionic Organics Database is new in FactSage 8.4

      The new database FTionx is devoted to ionic organics systems ("ionx" stands for "ionics"). Currently, there are only "ionic liquid" compounds (also referred to as "room temperature molten salts"). Ionic liquids have a low temperature of fusion (with a higher limit usually set arbitrarily to 100C), and consist of organic cations (which are large and asymmetric), and organic or inorganic anions. Work is in progress on Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) systems.

      The FTionx databases contain data for pure ionic organics compounds and ionic organic solutions of 8 cations:

        [C3MIm], [C4MIm], [C3MPip], [C3MPy], [C3MPyrr], [C4MPyrr], [C2Py], [C4Py]

      with C3MIm = 1-propyl-3-methyl-imidazolium, C4MIm = 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium, C3MPip = 1-propyl-1-methyl-piperidinium, C3MPy = 1-propyl-3-methyl-pyridinium, C3MPyrr = 1-propyl-1-methyl-pyrrolidinium, C4MPyrr = 1-butyl-1-methyl-pyrrolidinium, C2Py = 1-ethyl-pyridinium, and C4Py = 1-butyl-pyridinium.

      and 6 anions:

        Cl, Br, BF4, NO3, CH3SO3, PF6.

      In FTionx 8.4 there are currently:

      • 14 ionic organics compounds

      • 4 different liquid solutions : [C4MIm]Cl-[C4MIm]NO3-[C4MIm]CH3SO3 (LqILA), [C4MPyrr]Cl-[C4MPyrr]Br-[C4MPyrr]BF4 (LqILB), [C3MIm]PF6-[C3MPy]PF6-[C3MPyrr]PF6-[C3MPip]PF6 (LqILC), and [C2Py]Cl-[C2Py]Br-[C4Py]Cl-[C4Py]Br (LqILD)

      • 7 different solid solutions : chloride-rich [C4MPyrr](Cl,[Br]) solid solution (Clss); bromide-rich [C4MPyrr](Br,[Cl]) solid solution (Brss); ([C3MPyrr],[C3MPip])PF6 at high temperatures, intermediate temperatures and low temperatures (PPHT, PPIT, and PPLT); [C2Py](Cl,Br) (C2Py); and [C4Py](Cl,Br) (C4Py)

      For normal equilibrium calculations all the compounds tend to decompose into C(graphite, s) and gaseous products. In order to inhibit these decomposition reactions in FactSage, "virtual elements" (Qa, Qb, ..., Qh) with atomic weights of 0.0 have been used.

      The total number of stored FTionx phase diagrams is 22. For example, the following phase diagrams are polythermal projections of the liquidus surface.


      FTionx is included in the FACT 8.4 package of databases. Complete details on FTionx including all the phase diagrams are given in 'Documentation' in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


  • FTlite - the FACT Al-alloy and Mg-alloy Database - formerly known as the FACT Light Metal Alloy Database
      FTlite is designed for thermodynamic and phase equilibrium calculations involving Al alloys, Mg alloys and Ti alloys. It can also be used to perform calculations involving mixtures of Li-Na-KMg-Ca-Sr-Ba with several other elements.


      FTlite 8.4 binary assessments full size

      In FTlite 8.4 the changes are extensive.

      A total of 1017 binary systems (was 992 in 8.3) have been evaluated, for most of them over the entire range of composition and for all stable phases.

      Several binary systems were revised. A matrix of assessed binary systems is shown here for the major and minor alloying elements of Al-, Mg- and Ti-alloys.

      Several dozens of ternary systems have been assessed, and important quaternary systems have also been evaluated.

      FTlite 8.4 contains 324 solution phases (vs 317 in 8.3) and 2304 pure compounds (was 2145 in 8.3) with 2806 stoichiometric phases counting allotropic forms (2621 in 8.3).

      The total number of stored FTlite phase diagrams is now 1077 (was 1045 in 8.3).

      Complete details on FTlite 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in the updated Documentation in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


  • FScopp - the FactSage Copper Alloy Database
      FScopp is designed for thermodynamic and phase equilibrium calculations involving Cu alloys.


      In FScopp 8.4 a total of 685 binary systems (603 in 8.3) have been evaluated, for most of them over the entire range of composition and for all stable phases. A matrix of assessed binary systems is shown here for the major and minor alloying elements of Cu-alloys.

      In addition, several dozens of ternary systems have been assessed, and important quaternary systems have also been evaluated.

      The FScopp 8.4 database contains 330 solution phases (269 in 8.3) and 1471 pure compounds (1077 in 8.3) with 1891 stoichiometric phases (1442 in 8.3) counting allotropic forms.

      Complete details on FScopp 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in 'Documentation' in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


      FScopp 8.4 binary assessments full size


  • FSlead - the FactSage Lead Alloy Database

      FSlead is designed for thermodynamic and phase equilibrium calculations involving Pb alloys.


      In FSlead 8.4 (27 elements) a total of 238 binary systems (235 in 8.3) have been evaluated, for most of them over the entire range of composition and for all stable phases.

      A matrix of assessed binary systems is shown here for the major and minor alloying elements of Pb-alloys.

      In addition, several dozens of ternary systems have been assessed, and important quaternary systems have also been evaluated.

      The FSlead 8.4 database contains 127 solution phases (125 in 8.3) and 434 pure compounds (415 in 8.3) with 641 stoichiometric phases (618 in 8.3) counting allotropic forms.

      Complete details on FSlead 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in 'Documentation' in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


      FSlead 8.4 binary assessments full size


  • FSstel - the FactSage Steel Alloy Database

      FSstel covers a wide range of commercial grade carbon steels and stainless steels, and new high advanced steels under development.

      The FactSage 8.4 database contains 46 elements:

        Al, B, Bi, C, Ca, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, H, Hf, Mg, Mn, Mo, N, O, Nb, Ni, P, Pb, S, Sb, Si, Sn, Ta, Ti, V, W, Zn, Zr,
        RE (Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu)

      The FactSage FSstel steel database is based on relevant steel sub-systems from the old SGTE Solution database, but now incorporates updates of those systems as well as new published assessments. "Tramp elements" have also been included to allow calculations relating to recycling and removal of unwanted impurities to be performed.

      FSstel contains 381 completely assessed 61 partially assessed binary alloy systems, together with approximately 168 ternary and 29 quaternary systems for which assessed parameters are available for phases of practical relevance. It contains 181 solution phases and 1015 stoichiometric compounds.

      In FSstel the following systems have been added or updated.

      (1) Updates

      Update of Mu_phase and Sigma phase for binary and ternary systems Mu_phase and Sigma phase form extensive solid solutions in the Fe-Co-Cr-Mn-Mo-Nb-Ni-Ta system, which is important for high entropy alloys, and Ni- and Co-super alloy systems.

      Mu_phase and Sigma phase in binary and ternary systems were updated for better description of phase diagrams.

      In several ternary systems, FCC, BCC, liquid and other solutions were also updated simultaneously.

      (a) Binary systems

      Co-Mo system: change of Mu_phase, Sigma phase, liquid phase
      Fe-Mo system: change of Mu_phase
      Co-Nb system: replacement of CONB_lambda phase with Laves_C15, and replacement of CONB_Mu phase with Mu_phase
      Nb-Ni system: replacement of Nb6Ni7 phase with Mu_phase
      Fe-Nb system: update of Mu_phase, Laves_C14, liquid phase
      Ni-Ta system: update of Mu_phase
      Fe-Ta system: update of Mu_phase

      (b) Ternary systems

      Co-Fe-Mo system: update of Mu_phase, Sigma, FCC, Liquid
      Fe-Mo-Ni system: update of Mu_phase
      Co-Mo-Ni system: update of Mu_phase
      Co-Cr-Mn system: update of Sigma, High_Sigma, Cub_A13, HCP
      Cr-Mn-Ni system: update of BCC, FCC, Liquid
      Co-Cr-Fe system: update of BCC
      Co-Fe-Mn system: update of CBCC
      Co-Cr-Ni system: update of Sigma, FCC, BCC, Liquid, P_phase
      Fe-Ni-Ta system: update of Mu_phase, Liquid, others.
      Co-Fe-Nb system: update of Mu_phase, Liquid
      Cr-Nb-Ni system: update of Mu_phase, Liquid
      Fe-Nb-Ni system: update Mu_phase, Liquid
      Co-Cr-Fe-Mn system: high-Sigma solution containing Co


      full size

      (2) Hydrogen containing systems (Hydrogen solubility in V-rich BCC phase)

        Al-V-H, Co-V-H, Fe-V-H, and Ni-V-H systems

      (3) FCC L12 and BCC B2 order phase

        C, N and H are added to these ordered phases

      (4) Minor updates:

        Fe-P-X ternary system: update for Fe3P in Me3P solid solution
        Cu-O system: update of oxygen solubility in liquid Cu Oxygen containing system: oxygen solubility in FCC and BCC solutions: change of the solubility limits of oxygen in the solid solutions (max. 10 mol %)
        Ni-P-S system: addition of NiPS3 compound
        Cr-Ni system: small modification of liquid phase
        Co-Cr system: small modification of liquid phase
        Cr-Ta system: small modification of liquid phase
        Cr-Ti system: correction of Laves_C14 and C36 (remove C-TiCr2 phase and combine it to C14)

      The total number of stored FSstel phase diagrams is now *** (was 352 in 8.3).

      Complete details on FSstel 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in 'Documentation' in the FactSage Main Menu Window.


  • SGTE - the SGTE 2024 alloy databases

      The SGTE(2024) database is new and represents a significant update and revision of the previous SGTE(2022) alloy database.

      The 79 elements included in the database are

        Ag, Al, Am, As, Au, B, Ba, Be, Bi, C, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Dy, Er, Eu, Fe, Ga, Gd, Ge, H, Hf, Hg, Ho, In, Ir, K, La, Li, Lu, Mg, Mn, Mo, N, Na, Nb, Nd, Ni, Np, O, Os, P, Pa, Pb, Pd, Pr, Pt, Pu, Rb, Re, Rh, Ru, S, Sb, Sc, Se, Si, Sm, Sn, Sr, Ta, Tb, Tc, Te, Th, Ti, Tl, Tm, U, V, W, Y, Yb, Zn, Zr

      96 binary systems and 12 ternary system have been added, and updates have been applied to 19 binary systems. THe total number of phase diagrams is now 1363.

      Complete details on SGTE(2024) with revised documentation and all the calculated phase diagrams are given in Documentation in the FactSage Main Menu.


  • SpMCBN - the Spencer Group SpMCBN database for non-oxide refractory carbides, borides, nitrides and silicides.

      SpMCBN contains assessed thermodynamic parameters for binary and ternary alloys of high-temperature materials containing carbon, nitrogen, boron, and silicon. The alloys comprise the following systems:

        Me1-Me2-C, Me1-Me2-N, Me1-Me2-B, Me1-Me2-Si, Me-C-N, Me-C-B, Me-C-Si, Me-N-B, Me-N-Si, Me-B-Si, Me1-Me2-Me3

      The elements included in SpMCBN are:

        B, C, N, Si with

        Al, Ca, Co, Cr, Fe, Hf, Mg, Mn, Mo, Nb, Ni, Re, Sc, Ta, Tc, Ti, V, W, Y, Zr

      The SpMCBN database for FactSage 8.4 now includes nearly 100 new ternary systems. These relate to 33 systems with boron, 34 systems with carbon, 30 systems with nitrogen and 3 systems with silicon.

      There are now 244 binaries and 712 ternaries that give a total of 956 phase diagrams stored in FactSage 8.4.

      Complete details on SpMCBN 8.4 including all the phase diagrams are given in Documentation in the FactSage Main Menu.9


  • Public Databases

      Screenshot showing the summary of public databases in FactSage 8.4.

  • FactPS, ELEM and SGPS are compounds-only (pure substances) databases. All the other databases contain both compound and solution data.

  • FactPS, FToxid, FTsulf, FTsalt, FTmisc, FThall, FTOxCN, FTfrtz, FThelg, FTpulp, FTionx, ELEM and FTdemo are included in the FACT 8.4 package of databases.

  • FTionx is a new FACT database and SGTE(2024) is a new SGTE database in FactSage 8.4.

  • FTlite and FTnucl are special FACT databases that are leased separately.

  • FactPS, FToxid, FTsalt, FTmisc, FTlite, FScopp, FSlead, FSstel and SpMCBN have been updated in FactSage 8.4.

  • For detailed database information go to the FactSage Main Menu and click Documentation.


  • 4.  Previous FactSage Versions


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