23.07.19 - Philipp Strasberg "Quantum thermodynamics: An introduction"

Quantum thermodynamics: An introduction

Quantum thermodynamics is a blooming field of research at the moment, which remains open for many new ideas from different research communities. However, this jungle of different approaches makes it sometimes hardly accessible to the outsider. In this introductory talk I will use the first half to create a common understanding of the phenomena involved by reviewing major steps in the historical development of the field. In the second part I will outline key challenges for quantum thermodynamics today. Some of them are addressed in greater detail such as: what is the correct definition of work? how can I thermodynamically analyze experiments in quantum optics such as the micromaser? is it possible to construct useful autonomous nanoscale heat engines based on thermoelectric devices?