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  • Letter
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Triangular J1−J2 Heisenberg antiferromagnet in a magnetic field

T. Bader1,2, S. Feng1,2, S. Budaraju1,2, F. Becca3, J. Knolle1,2,4, and F. Pollmann1,2

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Phys. Rev. B 113, L241114 – Published 18 June, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/rwhz-jf5b

Abstract

The behavior of the paradigmatic J1−J2 triangular lattice Heisenberg antiferromagnet in a magnetic field remains unsettled despite decades of study. We map out the phase diagram using three complementary approaches, including self-consistent nonlinear spin-wave theory, density-matrix renormalization group, and variational Monte Carlo. This combined analysis resolves the competition among different field-induced magnetic orders and magnetization plateaus across the classically frustrated parameter range. In particular, there is a finite range in the parameter regime around J2/J1=18 in which (i) upon the application of the external field, the gapless quantum spin liquid acquires a finite density of monopoles, and (ii) by further increasing the field, two plateaus are clearly obtained at m=13 and m=12. We discuss the experimental importance of the consecutive magnetization plateau transitions as a signature of an underlying quantum spin-liquid phase.

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Phys. Rev. B 113, L241114– Published 18 June, 2026
  • Received 18 December 2025
  • Revised 18 March 2026
  • Accepted 22 May 2026
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