Energy dynamics, heat production and heat-work conversion with qubits: towards the development of quantum machines

Abstract

We present an overview of recent advances in the study of energy dynamics and mechanisms for energy conversion in qubit systems with special focus on realizations in superconducting quantum circuits. We briefly introduce the relevant theoretical framework to analyze heat generation, energy transport and energy conversion in these systems with and without time-dependent driving considering the effect of equilibrium and non-equilibrium environments. We analyze specific problems and mechanisms under current investigation in the context of qubit systems. These include the problem of energy dissipation and possible routes for its control, energy pumping between driving sources and heat pumping between reservoirs, implementation of thermal machines and mechanisms for energy storage. We highlight the underlying fundamental phenomena related to geometrical and topological properties, as well as many-body correlations. We also present an overview of recent experimental activity in this field.

Quantum thermodynamics with fast driving and strong coupling via the mesoscopic leads approach

“…In particular, as we go towards the advent of quantum devices across various platforms like atoms and ions in optical traps [6], molecular junctions [7], quantum dots [8], hybrid semiconductor-superconductor circuits [9,10], nitrogenvacancy centers in diamonds [11] etc., it has become necessary to understand the energy and the entropy cost of such applications [12,13]. These devices are inherently noisy because complete isolation from surrounding environment is neither possible at such small length scales, nor desired in many applications.…”