Quantum thermal machines powered by correlated baths

Felipe Barra

Xiao-Ming Li, Zhong‐Xiao Man, Yun‐Jie Xia

Gabriele De Chiara, Mauro Antezza

This work analyzes the performance of quantum thermal engines and refrigerators connected to correlated baths. To achieve the optimal performance, the machines need correlations in the system steady state and between system and environment.

Paolo Andrea Erdman

Amikam Levy, David Gelbwaser-Klimovsky

Wolfgang Niedenzu, David Gelbwaser-Klimovsky, Abraham G. Kofman +1 more

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.