Quantum transport theory of nuclear matter

Quantum kinetic equations are derived using the Keldysh Green's function formalism to describe non-equilibrium processes in nuclear matter and nucleus-nucleus collisions. A general transport equation is proposed which includes energy spreading effects. We discuss a number of specific kinetic equations which are the non-equilibrium versions of well-known many-body theories for equilibrated nuclear matter. Special emphasis is put on Brueckner-type approaches and the problem of complying with conservation laws. Finally we consider the relativistic extension of the formalism