Quantum thermal machines with single nonequilibrium environments

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum thermal machine powered by a single non-equilibrium electromagnetic field from macroscopic objects at different temperatures, capable of performing various thermodynamic tasks with high efficiency near the Carnot limit.

Contribution

It presents a novel quantum thermal machine design using a single non-equilibrium environment, enabling multiple thermodynamic tasks with high efficiency.

Findings

Machines can perform cooling, heating, and population inversion.

Efficiency at maximum power approaches the Carnot limit.

System offers a new paradigm for quantum energy management.

Abstract

We propose a scheme for a quantum thermal machine made by atoms interacting with a single non-equilibrium electromagnetic field. The field is produced by a simple configuration of macroscopic objects held at thermal equilibrium at different temperatures. We show that these machines can deliver all thermodynamic tasks (cooling, heating and population inversion), and this by establishing quantum coherence with the body on which they act. Remarkably, this system allows to reach efficiencies at maximum power very close to the Carnot limit, much more than in existing models. Our findings offer a new paradigm for efficient quantum energy flux management, and can be relevant for both experimental and technological purposes.