In this contribution, we discuss stability and passivity properties of open multi-physics systems. Building on non-equilibrium thermodynamics, an expression for the entropy production is proposed. The internal entropy production is used as a Lyapunov functional candidate, and then considered as a storage function to establish passivity property. From a control perspective, this study renders possible boundary passive feedback design for infinite-dimensional systems based on a the entropy production functional. The findings of this study are first illustrated through a simple heat diffusion process, and then by the analysis of burning plasma in Tokamak reactors.
Vincent, B., Hudon, N., Lefèvre, L., & Dochain, D. (2018). Passivity and stability properties of multi-physics systems using the entropy production. IFAC Papers-on-Line, 51(3), 13-18. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ifacol.2018.06.003 (Original work published 2018)