Quantum-memory-enhanced dissipative entanglement creation in nonequilibrium steady states

This article investigates dissipative preparation of entangled nonequilibrium steady states (NESS). We con-struct a collision model where the open system consists of two qubits which are coupled to heat reservoirs with different temperatures. The baths are modeled by sequences of qubits interacting with the open system. The model can be studied in different dynamical regimes: with and without environmental memory effects. We report that only a certain bath temperature range allows for entangled NESS. Furthermore, we obtain minimal and maximal critical values for the heat current through the system. Surprisingly, quantum memory effects play a crucial role in the long-time limit. First, memory effects broaden the parameter region where quantum correlated NESS may be dissipatively prepared and, second, they increase the attainable concurrence. Most remarkably, we find a heat current range that does not only allow, but even guarantees that the NESS is entangled. Thus, the heat current can witness entanglement of nonequilibrium steady states.

Automated summary

This study investigates the dissipative preparation of entangled nonequilibrium steady states using a collision model with qubits coupled to heat reservoirs. The research shows that only a certain bath temperature range allows for entangled NESS and quantum memory effects play a crucial role. Additionally, the study identifies a heat current range that guarantees entanglement of nonequilibrium steady states.