Reconfigurable Network for Quantum Transport Simulation

TL;DR

This paper presents a reconfigurable electronic network capable of simulating quantum transport phenomena with high fidelity, robustness, and control, including topological states, perfect transport, and biological exciton dynamics.

Contribution

It introduces a versatile reconfigurable platform that overcomes limitations of previous quantum simulators, enabling detailed studies of quantum transport and topological effects.

Findings

Successful simulation of ballistic wave propagation and localization.

Observation of topologically protected edge states in the SSH model.

Implementation of perfect quantum transport protocol.

Abstract

In 1981, Richard Feynman discussed the possibility of performing quantum mechanical simulations of nature. Ever since, there has been an enormous interest in using quantum mechanical systems, known as quantum simulators, to mimic specific physical systems. Hitherto, these controllable systems have been implemented on different platforms that rely on trapped atoms, superconducting circuits and photonic arrays. Unfortunately, these platforms do not seem to satisfy, at once, all desirable features of an universal simulator, namely long-lived coherence, full control of system parameters, low losses, and scalability. Here, we overcome these challenges and demonstrate robust simulation of quantum transport phenomena using a state-of-art reconfigurable electronic network. To test the robustness and precise control of our platform, we explore the ballistic propagation of a single-excitation wavefunction in an ordered lattice, and its localization due to disorder. We implement the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model to directly observe the emergence of topologically-protected one-dimensional edge states. Furthermore, we present the realization of the so-called perfect transport protocol, a key milestone for the development of scalable quantum computing and communication. Finally, we show the first simulation of the exciton dynamics in the B800 ring of the purple bacteria LH2 complex. The high fidelity of our simulations together with the low decoherence of our device make it a robust, versatile and promising platform for the simulation of quantum transport phenomena.