From the GKLS equation to the theory of solar and fuel cells

Abstract: The mathematically sound theory of quantum open systems, formulated in the 70-ties of XX century and highlighted by the discovery of Gorini-Kossakowski-Lindblad-Sudarshan (GKLS) equation, found a wide range of applications in various branches of physics and chemistry, notably in the field of quantum information and quantum thermodynamics. However, it took 40 years before this formalism has been applied to explain correctly the operation principles of long existing energy transducers like photovoltaic, thermoelectric and fuel cells. This long path is briefly reviewed from the personal author's perspective. Finally, the new, fully quantum model of chemical engine based on GKLS equation and applicable to fuel cells or replicators is outlined. The model illustrates the difficulty with an entirely quantum operational definition of work, comparable to the Problem of Quantum Measurement.