Variational principles for calculation of transport coefficients of relativistic multi-component systems

Variational expressions that give lower bounds on the transport coefficients of a multi- component relativistic system are derived from the set of coupled Boltzmann equations that are assumed to govern its behavior. No assumptions concerning the types of interactions that may exist between the various particles comprising the system other than that they are point-like are made. In particular we do not restrict ourselves to binary interactions and we allow particle creation and destruction to occur. We also take account of any external fields that may be present.