On compatibility of the Natural configuration framework with GENERIC: Derivation of anisotropic rate-type models

Abstract

Within the framework of natural configurations developed by Rajagopal and Srinivasa, evolution within continuum thermodynamics is formulated as evolution of a natural configuration linked with the current configuration. On the other hand, withing the General Equation for Non-Equilibrium Reversible-Irreversible Coupling (GENERIC) framework, the evolution is split into Hamiltonian mechanics and (generalized) gradient dynamics. These seemingly radically different approaches have actually a lot in common and we show their compatibility on a wide range of models. Both frameworks are illustrated on~isotropic and anisotropic rate-type fluid models. We propose an interpretation of the natural configurations within GENERIC and vice versa (when possible).