PT-Symmetric LC Passive Wireless Sensing

Parity-time (PT) symmetry challenges the long-held theoretical basis that only Hermitian operators correspond to observable phenomena in quantum mechanics. Non-Hermitian Hamiltonians satisfying PT symmetry also have a real-valued energy spectrum. In the field of inductor-capacitor (LC) passive wireless sensors, PT symmetry is mainly used for improving performance in terms of multi-parameter sensing, ultrahigh sensitivity, and longer interrogation distance. For example, the proposal of both higher-order PT symmetry and divergent exceptional points can utilize a more drastic bifurcation process around exceptional points (EPs) to accomplish a significantly higher sensitivity and spectral resolution. However, there are still many controversies regarding the inevitable noise and actual precision of the EP sensors. In this review, we systematically present the research status of PT-symmetric LC sensors in three working areas: exact phase, exceptional point, and broken phase, demonstrating the advantages of non-Hermitian sensing concerning classical LC sensing principles.

Automated summary

Parity-time (PT) symmetry challenges the theory that only Hermitian operators correspond to observable phenomena in quantum mechanics, as non-Hermitian Hamiltonians with PT symmetry also have a real-valued energy spectrum. In the field of LC passive wireless sensors, PT symmetry is used to improve performance in multi-parameter sensing, ultrahigh sensitivity, and longer interrogation distance. However, controversies exist regarding the noise and precision of PT-symmetric sensors. This review systematically presents the research status of PT-symmetric LC sensors in exact phase, exceptional point, and broken phase, highlighting the advantages of non-Hermitian sensing compared to classical LC sensing principles.