Quantum Diffusion in a Photonic Fibonacci Chain: From Localization to Ballistic Dynamics

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Authors: Jiankun Zhu, Yao Qin, Yuxiang Guo, Jizhou Wu, Sheng-Jun Yang, Yucheng Wang, Jingyun Fan
Cited by: 2
References: 73

Abstract

Quantum transport remains a central yet experimentally challenging problem in condensed matter and quantum physics. Here we report the first complete experimental characterization of the full spectrum of quantum transport behaviors in a one-dimensional Fibonacci chain-the paradigmatic quasicrystalline model-spanning localization, subdiffusion, normal and superdiffusion, and ballistic transport. Using a tunable photonic quantum-walk platform, these regimes are unambiguously resolved through their distinct power-law scalings of the mean square displacement and smooth autocorrelation function, together with pronounced oscillatory dynamical structures. These signatures arise from the intrinsic multifractal spectra and hyperuniform order of the Fibonacci quasicrystal, long predicted but never before experimentally resolved. Beyond mapping a comprehensive transport regime diagram, our highly controllable platform provides a powerful and versatile framework for exploring quasiperiodicity, multifractal criticality, and emergent quantum transport phenomena.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Quasicrystal Structures and Properties Quantum chaos and dynamical systems Photonic Crystals and Applications

Publication details

Journal / source
Physical Review Letters
Publisher
American Physical Society (APS)
Volume
136
Issue
14
Pages
140402–140402
Publication date
16 March 2026
Language
EN