Linear Response Theory
Non-equilibrium thermodynamics uses a phenomenological approach since enough information is not really available.
The Gibbs equation combines the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Together with the general balance equations under local thermodynamic equilibrium, the rate of entropy production can be obtained. This leads to the level of energy dissipation during a process, and in describing coupled phenomena.
We will not go far from equilibrium. The transport and rate equations will be expressed in linear forms, and the Onsager reciprocal relations are valid.
Stationary States
Intensive properties that specify the state of a substance are time independent in equilibrium systems and in nonequilibrium stationary states (which only happens in non-isolated systems of course).
Extensive properties specifying the state of a system with boundaries are also independent of time, and the boundaries are stationary in a coordinate system.
The stationary state of a substance at any point is related to the stationary state of the system
The total entropy will not change:
\[ \frac{dS}{dt} = \frac{dS_e}{dt} + \frac{dS_i}{dt} = 0 \]
Also in terms of entropy currents (in and out) a continuity equation can be written:
\[ \frac{dS_i}{dt} + (J_{s,in} - J_{s,out}) = 0 \]
\[ \begin{align} \frac{dS_e}{dt} &= \text{Entropy exchange between system and surroundings} \\ \frac{dS_i}{dt} &= \text{Entropy production inside} \end{align} \]
Entropy production (\(dS_i \geq 0\)) and since \(dS_e/dt\) is greater than 0 (system need not be isolated):
\[ \frac{dS_e}{dt} = -\frac{dS_i}{dt} = (J_{s,in} - J_{s,out}) < 0 \]
Entropy exchange with the environment is negative
The stationary state is maintained through the decrease in entropy exchanged between the system and its surrounding.
The total entropy produced within the system must be discharged across the boundary at stationary state.