Recent Developments in Finite Time Thermodynamics

Abstract

Finite time thermodynamics is a non-equilibrium theory. Its aim is to provide performance bounds and extremes for irreversible thermodynamic processes. Recent developments in difierent areas of this theory are presented. First it is shown how irreversible processes between reversible systems can be described by the endoreversible theory. Then maximum power and minimum entropy production processes are introduced. And finally the extension of finite time thermodynamics to the realm of quantum theory is demonstrated.