Theory of Nanoscale Energy Exchange in Quantum Thermodynamics
Abstract
Device miniaturization allows for the improved speed and performance of modern-day computers compared to initial computing technologies. To continue this trend, it is crucial to understand thermodynamics at the nanoscale to manage the heat flow in these shrinking devices. Just as the steam engine was instrumental to 19th century classical thermodynamics, studies of the quantum heat engine and absorption refrigerator are ongoing to establish thermodynamic theory from quantum principles. In a quantum heat engine, the nanoscale components exchange energy and heat between macro scale bodies to achieve a specific function. Such systems are realized, oftentimes, using inorganic nanoparticles (quantum dots) or trapped ions. In this work, we study three properties in open quantum systems that affect quantum thermal devices: cooperative environmental effects (strong coupling), heat leakage, and fluctuations. We use a full-counting statistics approach to derive equations of motion for the density matrix of the “working fluid” analogue. We use this theory to describe the effects of strong coupling on current and noise, and mechanisms of heat loss and its effects on device operation. We also study the trade-off between heat dissipation and precision in the form of the thermodynamic uncertainty relation, looking at non-Markovian effects, and validating the bound in experimental quantum coherent charge transport through atomic gold junctions. These operational bounds are very important to…
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