Frustrated Quantum Spin Models with Cold Coulomb Crystals

TL;DR

This paper proposes using zig-zag cold-ion crystals in linear traps to simulate frustrated quantum spin models, revealing complex phase diagrams and new features that are challenging for numerical methods.

Contribution

It introduces a feasible experimental approach to simulate long-range frustrated quantum spin models using cold Coulomb crystals, highlighting previously unobserved phases.

Findings

Identification of complex phase diagram with multiple phases

Numerical evidence supporting experimental feasibility

Discovery of previously unnoticed features in the model

Abstract

We exploit the geometry of a zig-zag cold-ion crystal in a linear trap to propose the quantum simulation of a paradigmatic model of long-ranged magnetic frustration. Such a quantum simulation would clarify the complex features of a rich phase diagram that presents ferromagnetic, dimerized antiferromagnetic, paramagnetic, and floating phases, together with previously unnoticed features that are hard to assess by numerics. We analyze in detail its experimental feasibility, and provide supporting numerical evidence on the basis of realistic parameters in current ion-trap technology.