Theory and simulations of quantum glass forming liquids

TL;DR

This paper develops a quantum extension of mode-coupling theory to describe quantum glass-forming liquids, predicting novel reentrant relaxation behavior, supported by path integral simulations that reveal factors influencing slow quantum fluid dynamics.

Contribution

It introduces a microscopic dynamical theory for quantum glasses based on a quantum mode-coupling extension, with novel predictions and simulation validation.

Findings

Prediction of reentrant relaxation times in quantum glasses

Simulation insights into slow dynamics of quantum fluids

Connection to quantum optimization problems

Abstract

A comprehensive microscopic dynamical theory is presented for the description of quantum fluids as they transform into glasses. The theory is based on a quantum extension of mode-coupling theory. Novel effects are predicted, such as reentrant behavior of dynamical relaxation times. These predictions are supported by path integral ring polymer molecular dynamics simulations. The simulations provide detailed insight into the factors that govern slow dynamics in glassy quantum fluids. Connection to other recent work on both quantum glasses as well as quantum optimization problems is presented.