A Bose-Einstein condensate thermal engine

The study of out-of-equilibrium thermodynamics of quantum systems has received increasing attention in recent years thanks to tremendous theoretical and experimental progress. While most of the studies in quantum thermodynamics bear a close resemblance to their classical counterparts, especially close to equilibrium, there are only a few examples of genuine quantum features, e.g. coherence and indistinguishability, that provide an advantage over classical thermodynamic devices. In this contribution, I will show the functioning and performance of an endoreversible Otto cycle operating with a harmonically confined Bose gas as the working medium. I analyze the engine operation in three regimes, with the working medium in the BEC phase, in the gas phase, and driven across the BEC transition during each cycle. The unique properties of the BEC phase allow for enhanced engine performance, including increased power output and higher efficiency at maximum power.