Thermal treatments refer to processes that involve heating and cooling materials to alter their physical and sometimes chemical properties. These treatments are commonly used in metallurgy to improve the strength, hardness, and ductility of metals. Techniques such as annealing, quenching, and tempering are examples of thermal treatments that help achieve desired material characteristics. In addition to metals, thermal treatments can also be applied to other materials, including ceramics and polymers. For instance, in the food industry, thermal treatments like pasteurization and sterilization are used to eliminate harmful microorganisms, ensuring food safety and extending shelf life.