Unifying framework for fractional Chern insulator stabilization
Phys. Rev. B 112, 235133 – Published 10 December, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/9hpw-kz7g
Abstract
We present a theory of fractional Chern insulator stabilization against charge-ordered states. We argue that the phase competition is captured by an effective interaction range, which depends on both the bare interaction range and quantum geometric properties. We claim that short effective interaction ranges stabilize fractional states while longer-range interactions favor charge-ordered states. To confirm our hypothesis, we conduct a numerical study of the generalized Hofstadter model using the density matrix renormalization group. Our theory offers an interpretation of the geometric stability hypothesis and generalizes it, providing a unifying framework for several approaches to fractional phase stabilization. Finally, we propose a route toward experimental verification of the theory and possible implications for fractional states in bands with higher Chern numbers.
