Optimization of Stochastic Heat Engines in the Underdamped Limit

Nikolas Zöller examines the working principles and the underlying theoretical foundations of a microscopic heat engine. In particular, he investigates the system's 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 engine's efficiency at maximum power through optimization of the driving protocol. In addition, possible experimental realizations of a microscopic heat engine are discussed.Contents? Stochastic Dynamics? Stochastic Heat Engines in the Overdamped and Underdamped Regime? Experimental Realization of a Stochastic Heat Engine? Entropy Production in Inhomogeneous Thermal EnvironmentsTarget Groups? Lecturers and students of physics, mathematics, especially physical engineering? Experimental physicistsThe AuthorNikolas  Zöller is currently working as a research associate at the Institute for Urban Futures at the Applied University of Potsdam where he applies concepts from theoretical physics and statistics to sociological problems.