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Dynamically Emerging Topological Phase Transitions in Nonlinear Interacting Soliton Lattices
Domenico Bongiovanni1,2, Dario Jukić3, Zhichan Hu1
1The MOE Key Laboratory of Weak-Light Nonlinear Photonics, TEDA Applied Physics Institute and School of Physics, Nankai University, Tianjin 300457, China.
Physical Review Letters
|November 12, 2021
Summary
We show how nonlinear interactions in Su-Schrieffer-Heeger lattices drive topological phase transitions. These transitions between trivial and nontrivial topological states are periodic and driven by emergent nonlinear topology.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear physics
- Topological matter
- Condensed matter physics
Background:
- Topological phases in condensed matter systems exhibit unique properties protected by topology.
- Dynamical control over topological phases is crucial for novel applications.
- Nonlinearity can introduce complex behaviors in physical systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate dynamical topological phase transitions in nonlinear systems.
- To investigate emergent nonlinear topological phenomena.
- To explore the role of nonlinearity in controlling topological states.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing evolving Su-Schrieffer-Heeger lattices composed of interacting soliton arrays.
- Analyzing phase transitions driven entirely by nonlinear effects.
- Identifying gap-closing and reopening points as signatures of phase transitions.
Main Results:
- Observed periodic transitions between topologically trivial and nontrivial phases.
- Demonstrated crossovers from nontrivial to trivial regimes.
- Showcased edge states emerging from bulk bands at transition points.
- Identified edge state decoupling from the bulk during crossovers.
Conclusions:
- Nonlinearity can induce and control dynamical topological phase transitions.
- Emergent nonlinear topological phenomena are realized in interacting soliton arrays.
- The observed transitions and crossovers offer new pathways for topological state manipulation.
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