We unambiguously identify and derive the irreversibilities and entropy fluxes of the quantum and classical processes that intrinsically limit the performance of thermionic and tunneling chillers. The fundamental tradeoff between cooling flux and efficiency can then be evaluated, including the ramifications for feasible cooling regimes. Quantitative illustrations are provided for real solid-state devices. We cast these results as trajectories in the temperature-entropy plane and unify the thermodynamic perspective of these quantum chillers with that of conventional cooling cycles.
History
Publication title
Applied Physics Letters
Volume
84
Issue
20
Pagination
3999-4001
ISSN
0003-6951
Department/School
School of Engineering
Publisher
Amer Inst Physics
Place of publication
Circulation & Fulfillment Div, 2 Huntington Quadrangle, Ste 1 N O 1, Melville, USA, Ny, 11747-4501