Density-wave-ordered phases of Rydberg atoms on a honeycomb lattice

Rydberg atom arrays have recently emerged to be a promising platform for the exploration of exotic quantum phases of matter and quantum phenomena. In this work, we map out the ground-state phase diagram of Rydberg atoms on a honeycomb lattice as a function of the Rydberg blockade radius and the laser detuning by performing large-scale finite-size density matrix renormalization group simulations. Apart from a featureless disordered phase, we find five other intricate long-range density-wave-ordered phases within a relatively wide parameter space. The properties of these quantum phases are analyzed by calculating their Rydberg excitation profiles and static structure factors. In addition, a continuous quantum phase transition belonging to the (2 + 1 )-dimensional Ising universality class is explored by a standard finite-size scaling analysis. Our work implies some different physics, such as the possible nontrivial quantum phase transitions and a highly degenerate string ordered phase, that a honeycomb geometry could bring to the Rydberg system and serves as a numerical guide for possible real experiments.

Automated summary

In this work, the ground-state phase diagram of Rydberg atoms on a honeycomb lattice is mapped out, revealing five intricate density-wave-ordered phases in addition to a disordered phase. The properties of these quantum phases are analyzed, and a continuous quantum phase transition belonging to the (2 + 1)-dimensional Ising universality class is explored. This work provides insights into the Rydberg system and serves as a numerical guide for possible real experiments.