Topological phases in two-dimensional Rydberg lattices
Phys. Rev. A 112, 013308 – Published 17 July, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/lf2c-h1kk
Abstract
We propose theoretically a simple two-dimensional system consisting of two square lattices of Rydberg atoms for the exploration of topological phenomena. In particular, we exploit the strong dipole-dipole interactions between Rydberg atoms to simulate a two-dimensional Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model. This model reveals a plethora of topological phases, which can be reached by varying the lattice geometry. We predict not only the emergence of edge and corner states, which characterize topological insulators, but also the appearance of pairs of topologically charged Dirac points and cones in gapless semimetallic phases. Moreover, the position, tilt, and degree of anisotropy of the cones, which may determine the transport properties in the system, are tunable via the lattice parameters. This establishes Rydberg lattice gases, which are already at the forefront of quantum simulation platforms, as the ideal setup for the exploration of topological phenomena.
