Carnot efficiency at divergent power output

TL;DR

This paper explores the possibility of achieving Carnot efficiency at divergent power output in thermodynamic machines, challenging traditional limits by considering infinitely-fast processes within stochastic thermodynamics.

Contribution

It demonstrates that efficient engines at divergent power are theoretically possible, using a quantum dot model to illustrate the physical principles involved.

Findings

Efficient engines at divergent power output are not impossible.

Quantum dot model supports the feasibility of high-efficiency, high-power engines.

Challenges the traditional view that efficiency only peaks at zero power.

Abstract

The widely debated feasibility of thermodynamic machines achieving Carnot efficiency at finite power has been convincingly dismissed. Yet, the common wisdom that efficiency can only be optimal in the limit of infinitely-slow processes overlooks the dual scenario of infinitely-fast processes. We corroborate that efficient engines at divergent power output are not theoretically impossible, framing our claims within the theory of Stochastic Thermodynamics. We inspect the case of an electronic quantum dot coupled to three particle reservoirs to illustrate the physical rationale.