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 in:New journal of physics 2016-08, Vol.18 (8), p.83012
Main Authors: Niedenzu, Wolfgang, Gelbwaser-Klimovsky, David, Kofman, Abraham G, Kurizki, Gershon
Format: Article
Language:English
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.
ISSN:1367-2630
1367-2630
DOI:10.1088/1367-2630/18/8/083012