On the operation of machines powered by quantum non-thermal baths

Diverse models of engines energised by quantum-coherent, hence non-thermal, baths allow the engine efficiency to transgress the standard thermodynamic Carnot bound. These transgressions call for an elucidation of the underlying mechanisms. Here we show that non-thermal baths may impart not only heat...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inNew journal of physics Vol. 18; no. 8; pp. 83012 - 83025
Main Authors Niedenzu, Wolfgang, Gelbwaser-Klimovsky, David, Kofman, Abraham G, Kurizki, Gershon
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Bristol IOP Publishing 02.08.2016
Subjects
CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSICS
heat engine
non-passivity
open quantum system
Physics
quantum thermodynamics
Thermal baths
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Summary:Diverse models of engines energised by quantum-coherent, hence non-thermal, baths allow the engine efficiency to transgress the standard thermodynamic Carnot bound. These transgressions call for an elucidation of the underlying mechanisms. Here we show that non-thermal baths may impart not only heat, but also mechanical work to a machine. The Carnot bound is inapplicable to such a hybrid machine. Intriguingly, it may exhibit dual action, concurrently as engine and refrigerator, with up to 100% efficiency. We conclude that even though a machine powered by a quantum bath may exhibit an unconventional performance, it still abides by the traditional principles of thermodynamics.
Bibliography:NJP-104332.R2
SC0001088 (energy conversion pro; SC0001088
USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES)
ISSN:1367-2630
1367-2630
DOI:10.1088/1367-2630/18/8/083012