Work

Tuning quantum-dot heat engines for optimal ecological performance

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We study the performance of electron-based quantum-dot heat engines using non-equilibrium thermodynamics and optimize them using an ecological performance criterion. We first globally optimize the system, assuming that we can control both the gate and drain voltages simultaneously. We then show that less general optimizations are possible, in which we control only the drain voltage. In the final part of the paper, we demonstrate, using irreversible thermodynamics, a one-to-one correspondence between the extreme condition of the ecological function and the thermodynamic equilibrium condition of the system.

Source: Journal of Applied Physics

DOI: 10.1063/5.0305514

Author: J. J. Fernández

Institution: Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

Subfield: Statistical and Nonlinear Physics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,500