Evolution of intermediate mass and massive binary stars: physics, mass loss, and rotation

TL;DR

This review explores the evolution of intermediate and massive binary stars, focusing on stellar physics, mass loss, rotation effects, and their roles in phenomena like binary mergers and gravitational wave sources.

Contribution

It critically examines the binary nature of Be-stars and supergiant sgB[e] stars, and discusses the impact of rotation on stellar evolution and binary interactions.

Findings

Binary frequency among OB-type stars is significant.

Rotation influences stellar evolution and binary interactions.

Massive binary mergers may contribute to r-process element enrichment and gravitational wave events.

Abstract

In the present review we discuss the past and present status of the interacting OB-type binary frequency. We critically examine the popular idea that Be-stars and supergiant sgB[e] stars are binary evolutionary products. The effects of rotation on stellar evolution in general, stellar population studies in particular, and the link with binaries will be evaluated. Finally a discussion is presented of massive double compact star binary mergers as possible major sites of chemical enrichment of r-process elements and as the origin of recent aLIGO GW events.