Intrinsic formulation of the Cauchy problem in general relativity

A new approach to the Cauchy problem in general relativity is presented. This approach considers a general and intrinsic formulation of the evolution problem for a space-time corresponding to a nonpolar continuum. Einstein's equations are coupled with recently proposed heat equations as a more natural extension of the classic situation. The model assumes proper constitutive equations of the continuum, including explicit laws for both the mechanical stress and the internal energy.