Autonomous Quantum Heat Engine Enabled by Molecular Optomechanics and Hysteresis Switching

Abstract: By integrating molecular optomechanics with molecular switches, we propose a scheme for a molecular quantum heat engine that operates autonomously through hysteretic feedback without external driving or modulation. Through a comparative analysis conducted within both semiclassical and fully quantum frameworks, we reveal the influence of quantum properties embedded within the autonomous control elements on the operational efficiency and performance of this advanced molecular machine.