English

Finite-time thermodynamics: A journey beginning with optimizing heat engines

Statistical Mechanics 2026-05-19 v1 Applied Physics Classical Physics Quantum Physics

Abstract

In this paper, we summarize the historical development of finite-time thermodynamics and review the current state of research over the past two decades in this field, focusing on fundamental constraints of finite-time thermodynamic cycles, optimal control and optimization of thermodynamic processes, the operation of unconventional heat engines, and experimental progress.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2411.03853,
  title  = {Finite-time thermodynamics: A journey beginning with optimizing heat engines},
  author = {Yu-Han Ma and Xiu-Hua Zhao},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2411.03853},
  year   = {2026}
}

Comments

4 pages, 131 references, comments are welcome

R2 v1 2026-06-28T19:50:03.715Z