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