Structure-dynamics relationship in coherent transport through disordered systems

TL;DR

This paper uses complex network analysis to explore how structural features of disordered systems influence quantum transport efficiency, revealing motifs that enhance robustness and efficiency.

Contribution

It introduces a novel network-based approach to relate structure and dynamics in quantum transport, identifying structural motifs linked to high efficiency and robustness.

Findings

Structural classes with similar high efficiency identified

Pair site motifs contribute to transport robustness

Transport properties are resilient to perturbations

Abstract

Quantum transport is strongly influenced by interference with phase relations that depend sensitively on the scattering medium. Since even small changes in the geometry of the medium can turn constructive interference to destructive, a clear relation between structure and fast, efficient transport is difficult to identify. Here we present a complex network analysis of quantum transport through disordered systems to elucidate the relationship between transport efficiency and structural organization. Evidence is provided for the emergence of structural classes with different geometries but similar high efficiency. Specifically, a structural motif characterised by pair sites which are not actively participating to the dynamics renders transport properties robust against perturbations. Our results pave the way for a systematic rationalization of the design principles behind highly efficient transport which is of paramount importance for technological applications as well as to address transport robustness in natural light harvesting complexes.