Theory and simulations of quantum glass forming liquids

Abstract

A comprehensive microscopic dynamical theory is presented for the description of quantum fluids as they transform into glasses. The theory is based on a quantum extension of mode-coupling theory. Novel effects are predicted, such as reentrant behavior of dynamical relaxation times. These predictions are supported by path integral ring polymer molecular dynamics simulations. The simulations provide detailed insight into the factors that govern slow dynamics in glassy quantum fluids. Connection to other recent work on both quantum glasses as well as quantum optimization problems is presented. © 2012 American Institute of Physics.