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Thermodynamic laws and efficiency of quantum heat engines under strong coupling

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  • Xu, Y.Y.

Abstract

In strongly coupled systems, the validity of thermodynamic laws has been questioned. We propose a method to infer thermal equilibrium between two systems by examining the absence of net heat transfer during their adiabatic attachment and detachment. Our results demonstrate that, even under strong coupling, the zeroth law holds and temperature remains an intensive property. Furthermore, we confirm that the first and second laws of thermodynamics are satisfied in this regime. Based on these findings, we present a general, model-independent framework for investigating a heat engine that is strongly coupled to a heat bath. Our analysis shows that the process of thermalization reduces the engine’s efficiency, and we derive the conditions under which the engine can extract positive work.

Suggested Citation

  • Xu, Y.Y., 2026. "Thermodynamic laws and efficiency of quantum heat engines under strong coupling," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 682(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:phsmap:v:682:y:2026:i:c:s0378437125008209
    DOI: 10.1016/j.physa.2025.131168
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