Thermodynamics with Internal State Variables

Abstract

This is a study of the thermodynamics of nonlinear materials with internal state variables whose temporal evolution is governed by ordinary differential equations. After employing a method developed by Coleman and Noll to find the general restrictions which the Clausius—Duhem inequality places on response functions, we analyze various types of dynamical stability that can be exhibited by solutions of the internal evolution equations. We also discuss integral dissipation inequalities, conditions under which temperatures can be associated with internal states, and the forms taken by response functions when the material is a fluid.