Channel order in the two-channel Kondo lattice

We discuss the two-channel Kondo lattice model where a single localized spin per unit cell is coupled to two different conduction electron orbitals per unit cell. The calculation is done using the bond fermion formalism. For a Hamiltonian which is symmetric under exchange of the conduction channels we find a spontaneous breaking of this symmetry, i.e., the Kondo singlets are formed almost exclusively between the localized spin and only one of the two conduction orbitals. In addition to this channel-ferromagnetic phase we also find a channel-antiferromagnetic phase where the preferred conduction electron orbital alternates between sublattices. The parameter which determines the transition between these phases is the interchannel hybridization.

Automated summary

This paper discusses the two-channel Kondo lattice model, in which a single localized spin per unit cell is coupled to two different conduction electron orbitals per unit cell. The calculations are done using the bond fermion formalism. It is found that for a Hamiltonian symmetric under exchange of the conduction channels, there is a spontaneous breaking of this symmetry, with the Kondo singlets being formed predominantly between the localized spin and only one of the two conduction orbitals. In addition to a channel-ferromagnetic phase, a channel-antiferromagnetic phase is also identified where the preferred conduction electron orbital alternates between sublattices. The parameter determining the transition between these phases is the interchannel hybridization.