A novel method for determining the entropy associated with irreversible processes has been provided, differing from the conventional theory of irreversible thermodynamics. It permits the direct relation of heat and work transfers in irreversible processes to those in reversible changes, in terms of measurable properties. The same technique is applied to the construction of thermodynamic state f...

RESTRICTIONS on the quasi-static extension, or healing, of Griffith cracks are developed in the framework of irreversible thermodynamics. It is emphasized that thermodynamics requires that (G 2r)I > 0, where i is crack speed, G the Irwin energy release rate, and 2y the work of reversible separation of the surfaces to be fractured. Implications for ‘lattice trapping’ models of cracks and for the...

We construct a generic model for a heat engine using information theory concepts, attributing irreversible energy dissipation to the information transmission channels. Using several forms for the channel capacity, classical and quantum, we demonstrate that our model recovers both the Carnot principle in the reversible limit, and the universal maximum power efficiency expression of nonreversible...

The variational approach to weakly nonlocal thermodynamic theories is critically revisited in the light of modern nonequilibrium thermody-namics. The example of Ginzburg-Landau equation is investigated in detail.

Thermoelectricity is traditionally explained via Onsager's irreversible, flux-force framework. The coupled flows of heat and electric charge are modelled as steady-state flows, driven by the thermodynamic forces defined in terms gradients local, intensive parameters like temperature electrochemical potential. A thermoelectric generator a device with finite extension, its performance measured to...

The external irreversible losses of air engines, due to equilibration of the hot and fast exhaust with the environment, are discussed based on the second law of thermodynamics. The effect of the bypass ratio on thermomechanical exergy destruction in the exhaust stream is demonstrated. The analysis gives a strong motivation for the use of high bypass turbo fan engines in modern aircraft.

We study the stationary nonequilibrium regime which settles in when two single-spin paramagnets each in contact with its own thermal bath are coupled. The response vs. correlation plot exhibits some features of aging systems, in particular the existence, in some regimes, of effective temperatures. P.A.C.S.: 05.70.Ln Nonequilibrium thermodynamics, irreversible processes

A general geometrical setting of nonequilibrium thermodynamics is developed. The approach is based on the notion of the natural projection which generalizes Ehrenfests' coarse-graining. It is demonstrated how derivations of irreversible macroscopic dynamics from the microscopic theories can be addressed through a study of stability of quasiequilibrium manifolds.