This is the first comprehensive monograph on a new thermodynamic theory that goes beyond the classical theory of irreversible processes. In contrast to the classical approach, the local equilibrium hypothesis is abandoned, and the basic variables are complemented by non-equilibrium quantities. The claims made for extended thermodynamics are confirmed by the kinetic theory of gases and statistical mechanics. The book covers a wide spectrum of applications, and also contains a wide discussion of the foundations and the scope of the most current theories of non-equilibrium thermodynamics. The present edition reflects new developments in the theory of applications, adds new problems and provides a more detailed comparison with other fields of active research. It contains 130 proposed problems, whose detailed solutions, as well as wide bibliography on extended irreversible thermodynamics and related topices, may be unloaded from the www.uab.es/dep-fisica/eit website.
From the reviews of the second edition "This excellent book presents the actual state of ideas on thermo-dynamics, and the new concept of Extended Irreversible Thermo-dynamics (EIT) ... Each chapter is self-consistent and ends with specific exercises and references." (V. Pletser in: Physicalia) From the reviews of the third edition: "This is an excellent monograph presenting comprehensively the state-of-art in one of the fast developing branches of non-equilibrium thermodynamics. The name of the theory emphasizes the main idea exploiting in the description on non-equilibrium states, namely, the extension of classical thermodynamic state space by means of additional independent variables, such as heat flux, entropy flux, and so on. ... Three parts of the book include the general theory, microscopic foundation, and selected applications. ... recommended for using in advanced courses for graduate students." (Arkadi Berezovski, Zentralblatt MATH, Vol. 974, 2001)