Abstract
We explore the use of fractional controlled-not gates in quantum thermodynamics. The Nth-root gate allows for a paced application of two-qubit operations. We apply it in quantum thermodynamic protocols for charging a quantum battery. Circuits for three (and two) qubits are analysed by considering the generated ergotropy and other measures of performance. We also perform an optimisation of initial system parameters, e.g.,the initial quantum coherence of one of the qubits strongly affects the efficiency of protocols and the system's performance as a battery. Finally, we briefly discuss the feasibility for an experimental realization.