In this volume, the shock compression technology of materials is described in parallel with the latest research results and their background. In the past, this type of technology was developed in connection with military techniques by certain particular research organizations. For this reason, researchers of materials in general have had less opportunity to make use of the technology. The conventional technology of shock compression has now been established, and is recognized as being remarkably useful as a means of materials science study. The feasibility of shock compression technology is dealt with in this book, as well as the latest research results for general material scientists. The shock synthesis of ceramics and intermetallic compounds, as well as shock compression behavior, are also described. In contrast to conventional works of this kind, this book describes shock compression studies performed by material scientists.