Strong Coupling Corrections in Quantum Thermodynamics

Perarnau-Llobet M, Wilming H, Riera A, Gallego R, Eisert J (2018)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2018

Journal

Physical Review Letters American Physical Society

Book Volume: 120

Article Number: 120602

Journal Issue: 12

DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.120.120602

Abstract

Quantum systems strongly coupled to many-body systems equilibrate to the reduced state of a global thermal state, deviating from the local thermal state of the system as it occurs in the weak-coupling limit. Taking this insight as a starting point, we study the thermodynamics of systems strongly coupled to thermal baths. First, we provide strong-coupling corrections to the second law applicable to general systems in three of its different readings: As a statement of maximal extractable work, on heat dissipation, and bound to the Carnot efficiency. These corrections become relevant for small quantum systems and vanish in first order in the interaction strength. We then move to the question of power of heat engines, obtaining a bound on the power enhancement due to strong coupling. Our results are exemplified on the paradigmatic non-Markovian quantum Brownian motion.

Involved external institutions

Max-Planck-Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) / Max-Planck-Institut für Quantenoptik DE Germany (DE) Freie Universität Berlin DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Perarnau-Llobet, M., Wilming, H., Riera, A., Gallego, R., & Eisert, J. (2018). Strong Coupling Corrections in Quantum Thermodynamics. Physical Review Letters, 120(12). https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.120.120602

MLA:

Perarnau-Llobet, M., et al. "Strong Coupling Corrections in Quantum Thermodynamics." Physical Review Letters 120.12 (2018).

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