Modeling the Thermodynamics of QCD

Exploring the complex phases of strongly interacting matter, this monograph employs a nonlocal covariant extension of the Nambu-Jona-Lasinio model to analyze quantum chromodynamics (QCD). It addresses the running of the QCD coupling and instanton physics, integrating gluon dynamics at various temperatures and densities. The resulting PNJL model captures both chiral and color-deconfinement transitions, with insights into thermodynamic properties and the finite density phase diagram. The work also includes a derivation of the nonlocal PNJL model from QCD fundamentals.