Recent Trends in Modern Applied Engineering Thermodynamics: A Review

Abstract

Thermodynamics, once confined to macroscopic equilibrium phenomena, has evolved into a broad and interdisciplinary science that describes systems across scales, from quantum and molecular to cosmological. Modern thermodynamics has evolved from a macroscopic, equilibrium discipline into a vibrant, multidisciplinary field addressing fluctuations, information, and quantum effects. Recent decades have witnessed revolutionary developments in stochastic, quantum, and information thermodynamics, integrating concepts from statistical mechanics, control theory, and information science. This review surveys the major contemporary trends in thermodynamics, including stochastic and quantum thermodynamics, thermodynamics of information, finite-time and optimized engines, thermodynamic uncertainty relations, and applications in biology and nanoscale systems. Emerging directions involving resource theories, machine learning, and relativistic extensions are also highlighted. Together, these trends reshape the foundations of the field and extend its relevance to modern technology, computation, and life sciences.