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Optimizing energy conversion with nonthermal resources in steady-state quantum devices

Elsa Danielsson, Henning Kirchberg, and Janine Splettstoesser

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Phys. Rev. B 112, 195434 – Published 25 November, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/dtvp-pwxk

Abstract

We provide a framework for optimizing energy conversion processes in coherent quantum conductors fed by nonthermal resources. Such nonthermal resources, which cannot be characterized by temperatures or electrochemical potentials, occur in small-scale systems that are smaller than their thermalization length. Using scattering theory in combination with a Lagrange multiplier method, we optimize the device's performance based on the efficiency, precision, or a trade-off between the two at a given output current. The transmission properties leading to this optimal performance are identified. We showcase our findings with the example of a refrigerator exploiting experimentally relevant nonthermal resources, which could result from competing environments or from light irradiation. We show that the performance is improved compared to a device exploiting a thermal resource. Our results can serve as guidelines for the design of energy-conversion processes in future nanoelectronic devices.

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Phys. Rev. B 112, 195434– Published 25 November, 2025
  • Received 22 August 2025
  • Accepted 28 October 2025
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