Gauge theory approach to glass transitions

TL;DR

This paper presents a gauge theory framework that integrates thermodynamics and dynamics to model the glass transition as an inaccessible second-order phase transition hindered by frustration-induced vortices causing critical slowing down.

Contribution

It introduces a novel gauge theory approach that combines thermodynamic and dynamic perspectives to explain glass transition phenomena.

Findings

Glass transition modeled as an inaccessible second-order phase transition.

Frustration-induced vortices prevent order parameter fluctuations.

Critical slowing down occurs above the phase transition temperature.

Abstract

This theory combines a thermodynamic approach with a dynamic one in order to describe glass transition. Glass transition is regarded as an inaccessible second order phase transition, which is interrupted because of premature critical slowing down, caused by the system's frustration. The frustration-induced vortices are present in the structure besides thermoactivated vortices, and prevent the development of the order parameter fluctuations, that leads to the critical slowing down the system kinetics at some temperature above the phase transition point.