Quantum-enhanced finite-time Otto cycle

Abstract

We use fast periodic control to realize finite-time Otto cycles exhibiting quantum advantage. Such periodic modulation of the working medium-bath interaction Hamiltonian during the thermalization strokes can give rise to non-Markovian anti-Zeno dynamics and corresponding reduction in the thermalization times. Faster thermalization can in turn significantly enhance the power output in engines or, equivalently, the rate of refrigeration in refrigerators. This improvement in performance of dynamically controlled Otto thermal machines arises due to the time-energy uncertainty relation of quantum mechanics.