Can we extract work from quantum squeezing?
In this paper, we explore how to use light squeezing—a purely quantum effect—to extract net mechanical work via radiation pressure. By designing a Squeezing Otto Engine, we demonstrate that it is possible to produce work from squeezing baths even in the absolute absence of a thermal gradient.
Key findings include:
Redefining Work: We show that the standard definition of work in quantum systems (Alicki’s) does not capture the extractable mechanical work in this context, as it misses the energy leaked to maintain squeezing.
The «Sweet Spot»: Contrary to the intuition that thermal noise is always detrimental, we found a nontrivial squeezing-dependent temperature where work production is actually maximized.
This work clarifies the role of squeezing as an independent thermodynamic resource, completely decoupled from thermal driving.
