Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics and Conformal Field Theory

TL;DR

This paper develops a model-independent operator algebraic framework for non-equilibrium quantum thermodynamics using 2D conformal field theory, describing how reservoirs reach steady states.

Contribution

It introduces a novel operator algebraic approach to non-equilibrium thermodynamics within conformal field theory, re-deriving recent steady-state formulas.

Findings

Describes non-equilibrium steady states in 2D CFT

Re-derives formulas of Bernard and Doyon

Provides a model-independent framework

Abstract

We present a model independent, operator algebraic approach to non-equilibrium quantum thermodynamics within the framework of two-dimensional Conformal Field Theory. Two infinite reservoirs in equilibrium at their own temperatures and chemical potentials are put in contact through a defect line, possibly by inserting a probe. As time evolves, the composite system then approaches a non-equilibrium steady state that we describe. In particular, we re-obtain recent formulas of Bernard and Doyon.