Department of Physics Papers
Title
Topology, Delocalization via Average Symmetry and the Symplectic Anderson Transition
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of this Version
12-14-2012
Abstract
A field theory of the Anderson transition in two-dimensional disordered systems with spin-orbit interactions and time-reversal symmetry is developed, in which the proliferation of vortexlike topological defects is essential for localization. The sign of vortex fugacity determines the Z2 topological class of the localized phase. There are two distinct fixed points with the same critical exponents, corresponding to transitions from a metal to an insulator and a topological insulator, respectively. The critical conductivity and correlation length exponent of these transitions are computed in an N = 1 - ε expansion in the number of replicas, where for small epsilon; the critical points are perturbatively connected to the Kosterlitz-Thouless critical point. Delocalized states, which arise at the surface of weak topological insulators and topological crystalline insulators, occur because vortex proliferation is forbidden due to the presence of symmetries that are violated by disorder, but are restored by disorder averaging.
Recommended Citation
Fu, L., & Kane, C. L. (2012). Topology, Delocalization via Average Symmetry and the Symplectic Anderson Transition. Retrieved from https://repository.upenn.edu/physics_papers/255
Date Posted: 30 January 2013
This document has been peer reviewed.
Comments
Fu, L & Kane, C. L. (2012). Topology, Delocalization via Average Symmetry and the Symplectic Anderson Transition. Physical Review Letters, 109(24), 246605. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.109.246605
© 2012 American Physical Society