Non Equilibrium Thermodynamics

The course describes in a simple and practical way what non-equilibrium thermodynamics is and how it can contribute to engineering fields. It explains how to derive proper equations of transport from the second law of thermodynamics or the entropy production. The obtained equations are frequently more precise than used so far, and can be used to understand the waste of energy resources in central process units in the industry. The entropy balance is used to define the energy efficiency in energy conversion and create consistent thermodynamic models. It also provides a systematic method for minimizing energy losses that are connected with transport of heat, mass, charge and momentum. The entropy balance examines operation at the state of minimum entropy production and is used to propose some rules of design for energy efficient operation.

For this course some knowledge of engineering thermodynamics is a prerequisite. The first and second law of thermodynamics and terms as entropy should be known before starting this course.

Subjects

1. Why is this field important

2. The heart of the theory / Vidéo / Exercise 1

3. Understanding entropy production  / Vidéo / Exercise 2 / Exercise 3

4. Coupled transport of heat and mass / Vidéo / Exercise 4

5. Coupled transport of charge and mass / Vidéo / Exercise 6

6. Coupled transport of heat and charge / Vidéo / Exercise 5

7. How to find the optimal process unit / Vidéo 

8. Optimal units in chemical processes