Researchers at HZB have taken an important step toward bringing one of quantum physics' more unusual predictions closer to experimental reality. Fractons, exotic quasiparticles previously predicted in quantum spin liquids using highly generalized gauge field theories, have now also appeared in simulations of a more realistic quantum solid-state model.
Quasiparticles emerge from the collective behavior of many interacting particles inside a solid. For instance, vibrations moving through a crystal lattice can be described as quasiparticles known as phonons.
Fractons are much more unusual. They appear at the corners of magnetic domain walls separating different spin arrangements, and their defining feature is their extremely limited mobility. A single fracton is essentially unable to move by itself and can only be shifted through interactions with other fractons.
That restriction could potentially be useful. Because fractons are so difficult to move, researchers have proposed that they might provide a way to store quantum information more robustly.
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