Stark many-body localization: Evidence for Hilbert-space shattering

TL;DR

This paper provides evidence for Stark many-body localization in an interacting quantum spin chain, showing initial-condition-dependent dynamics and supporting the concept of Hilbert-space shattering as a distinct localization mechanism.

Contribution

It demonstrates that Stark many-body localization is a genuine phenomenon, differing from disorder-driven localization, and supports the Hilbert-space shattering theory.

Findings

System exhibits initial-condition-dependent dynamics.

Localization persists at any finite field gradient.

Contradicts previous reports of ergodic behavior.

Abstract

We study the dynamics of an interacting quantum spin chain under the application of a linearly increasing field. This model exhibits a type of localization known as Stark many-body localization. The dynamics shows a strong dependence on the initial conditions, indicating that the system violates the conventional ("strong") eigenstate thermalization hypothesis at any finite gradient of the field. This is contrary to reports of a numerically observed ergodic phase. Therefore, the localization is crucially distinct from disorder-driven many-body localization, in agreement with recent predictions on the basis of localization via Hilbert-space shattering.