Speaker
Prof.
Bart Cleuren
(Hasselt University)
Description
We consider the performance characteristics of thermal
engines. Efficiency at maximum power is discussed in a
general setting. In particular, it is demonstrated how
successive symmetries placed upon the dynamics manifest
themselves at the macroscopic level. A general condition is
derived under which thermodynamic devices are able to attain
a reversible operation. Second, we derive general relations
between maximum power, maximum efficiency, and minimum
dissipation regimes from linear irreversible thermodynamics.
