Work

Hilbert space fragmentation at the origin of disorder-free localization in the lattice Schwinger model

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Lattice gauge theories, the discrete counterparts of continuum gauge theories, provide a rich framework for studying non-equilibrium quantum dynamics. Recent studies suggest disorder-free localization in the lattice Schwinger model, but its origin remains unclear. Using a combination of analytical and numerical methods, we show that Hilbert space fragmentation emerges in the strong coupling limit, constraining particle dynamics and causing sharp jumps in entanglement entropy growth within charge sectors. By analyzing jump statistics, we find that entanglement growth follows a single-logarithmic or weak power-law dependence on time, rather than a double-logarithmic form. This suggests a single ergodicity-breaking regime that mimics many-body localization in finite systems due to fragmentation effects. Our findings clarify the nature of disorder-free localization and its distinction from conventional many-body localization, highlighting how gauge constraints influence thermalization in lattice gauge theories.

Source: Communications Physics

DOI: 10.1038/s42005-025-02039-8

Authors: Jared Jeyaretnam, Tanmay Bhore, Jesse J. Osborne, Jad C. Halimeh, Zlatko Papić

Institutions: University of Leeds, The University of Queensland, Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Language: English

Topic: Quantum many-body systems

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,990