Quench dynamics across topological quantum phase transitions*

We study the dynamics of systems quenched through topological quantum phase transitions and investigate the behavior of the bulk and edge excitations with various quench rates. Specifically, we consider the Haldane model and checkerboard model in slow quench processes with distinct band-touching structures leading to topology changes. The generation of bulk excitations is found to obey the power-law relation Kibble-Zurek and Landau-Zener theories predict. However, an anti-Kibble-Zurek behavior is observed in the edge excitations. The mechanism of excitation generation on edge states is revealed, which explains the anti-Kibble-Zurek behavior.

Reference: PRB 97, 235144 (2018)