Second Law of Thermodynamics with Discrete Quantum Feedback Control

TL;DR

This paper derives a thermodynamic inequality incorporating quantum feedback control, showing that maximum extractable work can surpass traditional limits and efficiency can exceed Carnot's, while remaining consistent with the second law.

Contribution

It introduces a new thermodynamic inequality accounting for quantum feedback, revealing potential for higher work extraction and efficiency beyond classical thermodynamics.

Findings

Maximum work exceeds classical thermodynamic limits.

Efficiency of heat cycles can surpass Carnot efficiency.

Work is required for information processing in feedback control.

Abstract

A new thermodynamic inequality is derived which leads to the maximum work that can be extracted from multi-heat baths with the assistance of discrete quantum feedback control. The maximum work is determined by the free-energy difference and a generalized mutual information content between the thermodynamic system and the feedback controller. This maximum work can exceed that in conventional thermodynamics and, in the case of a heat cycle with two heat baths, the heat efficiency can be greater than that of the Carnot cycle. The consistency of our results with the second law of thermodynamics is ensured by the fact that work is needed for information processing of the feedback controller.