Dimensional decoupling at continuous quantum critical Mott transitions

TL;DR

This paper reveals that at the quantum critical point of continuous Mott transitions in layered 2D systems, the system transitions from 3D metallic behavior to decoupled 2D layers, with specific temperature-dependent conductivity predictions.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of dimensional decoupling at the Mott quantum critical point and derives the temperature dependence of interlayer conductivity in this regime.

Findings

Dimensional decoupling occurs at the Mott quantum critical point.

Interlayer conductivity exhibits distinct temperature dependence in crossover regimes.

System behaves as a 3D metal on the Fermi liquid side and as decoupled 2D layers in the insulator.

Abstract

For continuous Mott metal-insulator transitions in layered two dimensional systems, we demonstrate the phenomenon of dimensional decoupling: the system behaves as a three-dimensional metal in the Fermi liquid side but as a stack of decoupled two-dimensional layers in the Mott insulator. We show that the dimensional decoupling happens at the Mott quantum critical point itself. We derive the temperature dependence of the interlayer electric conductivity in various crossover regimes near such a continuous Mott transition, and discuss experimental implications.