Extended XY model for spinor polariton simulators

TL;DR

This paper extends the classical XY model to include polarization degrees of freedom in spinor polariton condensates, revealing new ground state structures and potential phenomena like a spin Meissner effect.

Contribution

It formulates a new classical spin Hamiltonian incorporating phase and polarization dynamics for spinor polariton systems, highlighting differences from scalar models.

Findings

Polarization modifies the ground state structure.

The model predicts differences between scalar and spinor condensates.

Discussion of a possible spin Meissner effect in coupled condensates.

Abstract

The classic lattice XY model is one of the universal models of statistical mechanics appearing in a broad variety of optical and condensed matter systems. One of its possible realizations is a system of tunnel-coupled spinor polariton condensates, where phases of individual condensates play a role of the two-dimensional spins. We show that the account of the polarization degree of freedom of cavity polaritons adds a new twist to the problem, modifying in particular the structure of the ground state. We formulate the corresponding classical spin Hamiltonian, which couples phase and polarization dynamics, and consider several particular geometries, demonstrating the principal differences between the scalar and spinor cases. Possible analog of spin Meissner effect for coupled condensates is discussed.