Classical frustration and quantum disorder in spin-orbital models

TL;DR

This paper reviews the Kugel-Khomskii spin-orbital model, highlighting classical frustration points and proposing that quantum effects may lead to a disordered ground state in this fundamental system.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of classical dynamical frustration in the Kugel-Khomskii model and suggests its potential to produce quantum disordered ground states.

Findings

Classical limit shows perfect dynamical frustration.

Potential for quantum disorder in the ground state.

Highlights importance of frustration in spin-orbital models.

Abstract

The most elementary of all physical spin-orbital models is the Kugel-Khomskii model describing a S=1/2, $e_g$ degenerate Mott-insulator. Recent theoretical work is reviewed revealing that the classical limit is characterized by a point of perfect dynamical frustration. It is suggested that this might give rise to a quantum disordered ground state.