Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Finite-time thermodynamics (FTT) describes the study of thermodynamic processes that take place in finite time. Due to the finite-time requirement, in general the system cannot move from equilibrium state to equilibrium state. As a consequence, excess entropy is generated, available work is reduced, and/or the maximally achievable efficiency is not achieved; minimizing these negative side-effects constitutes an optimal control problem. Particularly challenging are processes and cycles that involve phase transitions of the working fluid material or the target material of a synthesis process, especially since most materials reside on a highly complex energy landscape exhibiting alternative metastable phases or glassy states. In this perspective, we discuss the issues and challenges involved in dealing with such materials when performing thermodynamic processes that include phase transitions in finite time. We focus on thermodynamic cycles with one back-and-forth transition and the generation of new materials via a phase transition; other systems discussed concern the computation of free energy differences and the general applicability of FTT to systems outside the realm of chemistry and physics that exhibit cost function landscapes with phase transition-like dynamics.
Source: Entropy
DOI: 10.3390/e27080819
Author: Johann Christian Schön
Institution: Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research
Language: English
Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4413019902