Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics in Multiphase Flows - Graduate Text

In this review of Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics in Multiphase Flows, the bottom line is clear: this is a focused graduate-level text for readers who need a rigorous bridge between thermodynamic theory and the rheology of multiphase systems. Roberto Mauri presents a systematic introduction to non-equilibrium thermodynamics and then applies the framework to derive constitutive relations for multiphase flows, making the book especially useful for students and researchers seeking theoretical depth rather than a cookbook of simulations or industrial procedures.

Key Features

• Theory-first presentation: The first part reviews essential elements of non-equilibrium thermodynamics, giving readers a clear theoretical foundation to interpret irreversible processes.
• Applications to rheology: The book connects the general theory to the rheology of multiphase flows, helping readers translate abstract concepts into material behavior descriptions.
• Constitutive modeling focus: The second part shows how to determine constitutive relations for multiphase systems, useful for model development and analytical work.
• Problems with solutions: Each chapter concludes with problems and solutions, enabling self-study and reinforcing the derivations shown in the text.
• Targeted graduate level: The presentation assumes background in engineering, physics, or materials science, which streamlines depth over elementary explanation.

Who It's For

The book is best for graduate students and researchers in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or materials science who need a rigorous, theory-oriented treatment of irreversible processes and multiphase rheology. It suits readers preparing for research or courses that emphasize constitutive theory and continuum approaches.

It is not aimed at undergraduate beginners, casual readers, or practitioners seeking step-by-step experimental protocols or software tutorials. Those looking for an introductory primer with minimal mathematical detail should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Careful exposition of non-equilibrium thermodynamics that clarifies foundational concepts needed for irreversible process modeling.
• Direct application to multiphase flow rheology, which helps bridge theory and modeling practice.
• End-of-chapter problems with solutions, supporting independent study and verification of derivations.
• A focused scope that keeps the presentation coherent for graduate coursework or research reference.

Cons

• Strong mathematical and theoretical focus may be challenging for readers without a solid background in continuum mechanics or thermodynamics.
• Limited coverage of numerical methods or experimental techniques for practitioners who need implementation guidance.

Specifications

Title	Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics in Multiphase Flows
Series	Soft and Biological Matter
Author	Roberto Mauri
Scope	Theory of non-equilibrium thermodynamics and applications to multiphase rheology
Audience	Graduate students in engineering, physics, and materials science
Contents	Theory part, application part, chapter problems with solutions

Our Verdict

For graduate students and researchers who need a rigorous, theory-driven resource on irreversible processes and multiphase rheology, this book delivers substantial value by combining clear thermodynamic foundations with practical derivations of constitutive relations. It is recommended as a course text or reference for modelers, though readers seeking applied computational or experimental detail should complement it with other sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the book include worked problems?
Yes, each chapter contains problems and the solutions are provided at the end of the book to support self-study.

Is this book suitable for undergraduates?
No, the presentation assumes graduate-level background in thermodynamics, continuum mechanics, or related fields.

Does it cover numerical simulation methods?
The focus is on theory and constitutive modeling rather than numerical implementation or software-specific guidance.