Coupled Transport Phenomena

The analysis of coupled processes is one of the most outstanding aspects of the classical theory of non-equilibrium thermodynamics. To emphasize this feature, this chapter is dedicated to the study of coupled transport processes, involving two fluxes and two thermodynamic forces. Emphasis is put on some practical applications in thermoelectricity (coupling of heat and electricity), thermodiffusion (coupling of heat and mass motion) and transport of matter through membranes. In the precedent chapter, we have already outlined, in general terms, the importance of the Onsager's reciprocal relations ruling the coefficients that describe such couplings. Here, we will discuss direct applications.