Abstract. We propose a non-local, meso-scale approach for coupling multiphysics processes across scale. The physics is based on discrete phenomena, triggered by local Thermo-Hydro-Mechano-Chemical (THMC) instabilities, that cause cross-diffusion (quasi-soliton) acceleration waves. These waves nucleate when the overall stress field is incompatible with accelerations from local feedbacks of generalized THMC thermodynamic forces that trigger generalized thermodynamic fluxes of another kind. Cross-diffusion terms in the 4 × 4 THMC diffusion matrix are shown to lead to multiple diffusional P- and S-wave equations as coupled THMC solutions. Uncertainties in the location of meso-scale material instabilities are captured by a wave-scale correlation of probability amplitudes. Cross-diffusional waves have unusual dispersion patterns and, although they assume a solitary state, do not behave like solitons but show complex interactions when they collide. Their characteristic wavenumber and constant speed define mesoscopic internal material time-space relations entirely defined by the coefficients of the coupled THMC reaction-cross-diffusion equations. For extreme conditions, cross-diffusion waves can lead to an energy cascade connecting large and small-scales and cause solid-state turbulence.