Optimization of Stochastic Heat Engines in the Underdamped Limit

Nikolas Zِller examines the working principles and the underlying theoretical foundations of a microscopic heat engine. In particular, he investigates the systems stochastic dynamics in the underdamped regime which has hardly been studied in the past, but will be experimentally feasible in the near future due to recent technological developments. Emphasis is put on the maximization of the engines efficiency at maximum power through optimization of the driving protocol. In addition, possible experimental realizations of a microscopic heat engine are discussed.