Research project Three-dimensional topologically ordered phases
We study topologically ordered systems. One of their characterizing features is quantum number fractionalization, e.g. quasiparticle excitations can carry charge that is a fraction of the elementary electron charge.
The interplay of quantum mechanics, strong interactions and topology can lead to fundamentally new phenomena in many-body systems. The most fascinating among them is doubtless the emergence of anyonic excitations. Phases of matter that harbor anyons are called ‘topologically ordered’ and have been studied intensely in two dimensions. However, three-dimensional topologically ordered phases have, so far, drawn
much less attention, although they are expected to show even richer behavior than their two-dimensional cousins. The aim of this project is to determine the properties of three-dimensional topologically ordered systems, with a particular focus on three-dimensional quantum spin liquids, and to find robust topological signatures that are relevant for real materials and that can be tested in experiments.
Project description
The combination of three spatial dimensions, topological order, and non-ideal setups opens up a whole new direction for finding interesting topologically ordered phases of matter. An important insight is that ‘flaws’, such as dislocations and domain walls, are not just a necessary evil, but can enrich the topological phase.
Project members
Project managers
Maria Hermanns
Forskare
Members
Lukas Andre Rødland
PhD Student
