A Nanosize Quantum-Dot Photoelectric Refrigerator

We investigate the thermodynamic performance of a nanosized photoelectric refrigerator consisting of two single energy levels embedded between two reservoirs at different temperatures. Based on the quantum master equation, expressions for the cooling power and coefficient of performance (COP) of the refrigerator are derived. The characteristic curves between the cooling power and COP are plotted. Moreover, the optimal performance parameters are analyzed by the numerical calculation and graphic method. The influence of the nonradiative processes on the performance characteristics and optimal performance parameters are discussed in detail.