Many-body localization: An introduction and selected topics

TLDR

Many‑body localization is a non‑thermalizing phase that arises in isolated quantum systems with disorder and interactions, and has become a stable solution with ongoing specialized investigations. The paper introduces many‑body localization through a simple quantum spin‑chain example and outlines its key properties. It reviews current experimental efforts probing many‑body localization physics. The authors conclude by highlighting connections between many‑body localization and quantum simulations.

Abstract

What happens in an isolated quantum system when both disorder and interactions are present? Over the recent years, the picture of a non-thermalizing phase of matter, the many-localized phase, has emerged as a stable solution. We present a basic introduction to the topic of many-body localization, using the simple example of a quantum spin chain which allows us to illustrate several of the properties of this phase. We then briefly review the current experimental research efforts probing this physics. The largest part of this review is a selection of more specialized questions, some of which are currently under active investigation. We conclude by summarizing the connections between many-body localization and quantum simulations.