Pseudo-Hermitian thermal machines

Here we present a protocol for implementing a quantum thermal machine based on an NMR pseudo-Hermitian time-dependent Hamiltonian. We use an Otto cycle to derive the machine’s efficiency and power delivery, analyzing the role of pseudo-Hermiticity in the engine’s operation. Specifically, we show that pseudo-Hermiticity can combine unit efficiency with a power delivery rate that increases the further the Hamiltonian is from Hermiticity, suggesting this is a general feature of pseudo-Hermitian thermal machines.