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This thesis concerns the theoretical analysis of thermoelectric transport
properties and single electron sources in mesoscopic conductors. We
propose two types of thermoelectric heat engines and analyze them with the
help of performance quantifiers. We also investigate and compare the
properties of different single electron sources, focusing on their coupled
charge and energy transport. As a common denominator, all investigations
are carried out within the framework of scattering theory. The thesis comprises four papers.
In Paper I we propose a thermoelectric heat engine in a two terminal
quantum Hall conductor, based only on quantum interference and with
efficiency and power production close to the theoretical maximum.
In Paper II we theoretically compare the combined energy and charge
transport properties of different single electron sources in mesoscopic
systems.
In Paper III we analyze a quantum point contact as a thermoelectric heat
engine, exploring the trade-off between efficient operation, large power
output and small fluctuations.
In Paper IV we investigate the interplay between thermoelectric transport
properties and single electron sources, focusing on the role of quantum
screening effects.