An analysis of single and double generator thermodynamic formalisms for the macroscopic description of complex fluids (Q1289085)

Several seemingly distinct formalisms have been developed recently as an alternative to the modern conventional approach (based on balance equations) for describing the mechanics and thermodynamics of complex fluids under dynamical conditions. Two of these approaches for isolated thermodynamic systems are the single generator bracket formalism and the more recent GENERIC formalism incorporating a second generating functional. The interrelationships between these two alternate approaches are examined on an abstract level, and direct connections are determined for some specific examples of fluid systems: a compressible, nonisothermal, isotropic fluid, an arbitrary fluid with an unspecified internal variable, and a chemically reactive fluid system.