The thermodynamics of evolving interfaces far from equilibrium

Abstract: "We develop a general thermodynamical description of an evolving interface appropriate to situations far from equilibrium. The theory represents a broad departure from theories based on classical nonequilibrium thermodynamics, as we do not assume a linear relationship between fluxes and forces, and we do not limit our theory to small departures from equilibrium. Further, we allow for diffusion in both phases without an assumption of steady-state diffusion in the bulk material; we allow the composition of material transferred across the interface to differ from the compositions of either phase, with solute drag included as a special case; and we allow for heat flow in both phases. As an application of the general theory, we develop linearized interface conditions for an evolving interface."