Describing the relation between particle and energy currents is at the heart of thermoelectrics. When combined with the principles of thermodynamics, the resulting theory has high predictive power. Specifically, it allows for a successful characterization of the efficiency of various thermoelectric machines in terms of a figure of merit. In this talk, I will show a generalization of the theory of thermoelectrics in order to include coherent electron systems under adiabatic ac driving, accounting for quantum pumping of charge and heat as well as for the work exchanged between the electron system and the driving potentials. I will also discuss the consequences of this generalized thermoelectric framework for quantum motors, generators, heat engines, and heat pumps, characterizing them in terms of efficiencies and figures of merit. Moreover, I also would like to briefly show you how a nano-electromechanical system can work as a quantum motor that uses an electrical energy provided by a static bias voltage to induce a self-sustaining periodic movement of a mechanical system.
Coffee and cookies will be served 15 minutes before the start of the seminar
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