Lattice Deformation Induced Higher-Order Hybrid Topology

Hybrid systems provide a general framework for realizing cooperative effects among multiple topological phases. Unlike the simple coexistence of topological phases in separate band gaps, intrinsic hybridization integrates different topological phases into a single band gap, enabling controlled spatial distributions of topological states, tailored boundary responses, and emergent states inaccessible in single-phase systems. Here, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a higher-order hybrid topological insulator enabled by intrinsic hybridization, implemented through lattice-deformation engineering to integrate higher-order spin and valley topological phases. This mechanism gives rise to three unconventional types of corner states and enables their selective excitation. As the hybridization parameter is continuously tuned, the system transitions across multiple topological regimes, accompanied by a systematic reconstruction of both the number and nature of corner states. These results extend the landscape of higher-order topological phases, provide a general strategy for designing reconfigurable hybrid topological platforms, and demonstrate potential applications in wave manipulation.