Strong Coupling Corrections in Quantum Thermodynamics

M. Perarnau-Llobet, H. Wilming, A. Riera, R. Gallego, and J. Eisert
Phys. Rev. Lett. 120, 120602 – Published 22 March 2018
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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.

  • Figure
  • Received 21 May 2017
  • Revised 19 December 2017

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.120.120602

© 2018 American Physical Society

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

Quantum Information, Science & TechnologyStatistical Physics & ThermodynamicsGeneral Physics

Authors & Affiliations

M. Perarnau-Llobet1,2, H. Wilming3, A. Riera1,2, R. Gallego3, and J. Eisert3

  • 1Max-Planck-Institut für Quantenoptik, D-85748 Garching, Germany
  • 2ICFO-Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08860 Castelldefels, Barcelona, Spain
  • 3Dahlem Center for Complex Quantum Systems, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany

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Issue

Vol. 120, Iss. 12 — 23 March 2018

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