Designer quantum states of matter created atom-by-atom

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent progress in creating atom-by-atom quantum states of matter using advanced microscopy and manipulation techniques, highlighting new exotic phases and future research directions.

Contribution

It introduces the latest methods for bottom-up construction of quantum states and discusses their implications for understanding complex quantum phenomena.

Findings

Creation of artificial electronic and spin lattices

Observation of exotic quantum phases like topological Dirac dispersion

Projection of future research in non-equilibrium dynamics and quantum topology

Abstract

With the advances in high resolution and spin-resolved scanning tunneling microscopy as well as atomic-scale manipulation, it has become possible to create and characterize quantum states of matter bottom-up, atom-by-atom. This is largely based on controlling the particle- or wave-like nature of electrons, as well as the interactions between spins, electrons, and orbitals and their interplay with structure and dimensionality. We review the recent advances in creating artificial electronic and spin lattices that lead to various exotic quantum phases of matter, ranging from topological Dirac dispersion to complex magnetic order. We also project future perspectives in non-equilibrium dynamics, prototype technologies, engineered quantum phase transitions and topology, as well as the evolution of complexity from simplicity in this newly developing field.