Enhanced Quantum Transport in Multiplex Networks

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that multiplexing layered networks can enhance quantum transport and overcome localization effects, with the outcome depending on the coupling ratios within and between layers.

Contribution

It introduces a method to improve quantum transport in disordered networks by stacking layers into multiplex structures, overcoming Anderson localization effects.

Findings

Transport is enhanced when intra- and inter-layer couplings are comparable.

Multiplexing can overcome localization in both random and Anderson networks.

Transport efficiency varies with coupling ratios.

Abstract

Quantum transport through disordered structures is inhibited by (Anderson) localization effects. The disorder can be either topological as in random networks or energetical as in the original Anderson model. In both cases the eigenstates of the Hamiltonian associated with the network become localized. We show how to overcome localization by network multiplexing. Here, multiple layers of random networks with the same number of nodes are stacked in such a way that in the perpendicular directions regular one-dimensional networks are formed. Depending on the ratio of the coupling within the layer and perpendicular to it, transport gets either enhanced or diminished. In particular, if the couplings are of the same order, transport gets enhanced and localization effects can be overcome. We exemplify our results by two examples: multiplexes of random networks and of one-dimensional Anderson models.