The textbook uses interdisciplinary approach and combines information from solid state physics, chemistry, crystal chemistry, and materials science. A comprehensive approach is used to cover topics from the basics of crystallography and crystal chemistry to the consideration of real materials with structural defects, that allows creating a holistic view of the nature of solids and a systematic study of refractory compounds, from phase diagrams to an overview of the main physical and mechanical properties. The combination of comprehensive knowledge about crystalline materials, ranging from the fundamental principles of symmetry and the structure of perfect crystals to a detailed analysis of phase diagrams, structure, and properties of refractory compounds makes this textbook a unique educational and scientific resource that can be useful for students, master's and doctoral candidates studying materials science, applied physics, chemistry, nanomaterials, surface engineering, metallurgy, electronics, and mechanical engineering to learn the fundamentals of structural crystallography and crystal chemistry, as well as for teachers as an educational and methodological resource, and for engineers and specialists in industry involved in the development, synthesis, and use of new structural and functional materials.

The textbook uses interdisciplinary approach and combines information from solid state physics, chemistry, crystal chemistry, and materials science. A comprehensive approach is used to cover topics from the basics of crystallography and crystal chemistry to the consideration of real materials with structural defects, that allows creating a holistic view of the nature of solids and a systematic study of refractory compounds, from phase diagrams to an overview of the main physical and mechanical properties. The combination of comprehensive knowledge about crystalline materials, ranging from the fundamental principles of symmetry and the structure of perfect crystals to a detailed analysis of phase diagrams, structure, and properties of refractory compounds makes this textbook a unique educational and scientific resource that can be useful for students, master's and doctoral candidates studying materials science, applied physics, chemistry, nanomaterials, surface engineering, metallurgy, electronics, and mechanical engineering to learn the fundamentals of structural crystallography and crystal chemistry, as well as for teachers as an educational and methodological resource, and for engineers and specialists in industry involved in the development, synthesis, and use of new structural and functional materials.