Journal of Chemical Engineering & Process Technology
Open Access

A discussion on the second law of thermodynamic: Limits of the different formulations and guidelines through a better enunciation

4^th International Conference on Chemical Engineering

September 17-18, 2018 | Vancouver, Canada

Michele Trancossi

Sheffiled Hallam University, UK

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Chem Eng Process Technol

Abstract :

The second law of thermodynamics is a general scientific and philosophical problem from its first enunciation. Some potential ambiguities that relate directly to the concept of entropy have produced errors and misunderstandings in the past. Different attempts of producing a better definition f the second law on the basis of both mathematical methods and assumptions, such as the axiomatic thermodynamic model by Carathéodory and the different attempts formulated for improving both the Clausius formulation and the statistical formulations. Some typical error induced by the lack of clarity of the second law formulation can be referred to the misuse of the closed system definition by creationists in the attempt of demonstrating the impossibility of evolution, to the existence of two different formulations one that relates entropy to disorder and one that relates it to the degradation of the quality of available energy. A second consideration relates to exergy analysis that appears much more useful in terms of energy conversion system rather than traditional entropic formulation of the second law. An analysis of the historical problems which are connected with the definition of entropy and second law is presented diffusely. An attempt of formulating possible guidelines for a future enunciation, which can be effectively more functional with respect to the solution of industrial problems is also presented.

Biography :

E-mail: M.Trancossi@shu.ac.uk