Nonequilibrium quantum criticality in open electronic systems

TL;DR

This paper develops a theory of quantum criticality in open electronic systems driven out of equilibrium by current flow, revealing that nonequilibrium-induced phase transitions share critical behavior with thermal ones.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive framework for understanding quantum criticality in open, driven electronic systems, including both equilibrium deviations and nonequilibrium-induced phase transitions.

Findings

Nonequilibrium phase transitions exhibit the same critical behavior as thermal transitions.

The theory applies to open itinerant electron magnets with current-driven nonequilibrium conditions.

Both equilibrium and nonequilibrium quantum critical points are analyzed.

Abstract

A theory is presented of quantum criticality in open (coupled to reservoirs) itinerant electron magnets, with nonequilibrium drive provided by current flow across the system. Both departures from equilibrium at conventional (equilibrium) quantum critical points and the physics of phase transitions induced by the nonequilibrium drive are treated. Nonequilibrium-induced phase transitions are found to have the same leading critical behavior as conventional thermal phase transitions.