Characterizing the Haldane phase in quasi-one-dimensional spin-1 Heisenberg antiferromagnets

Abstract

We review the basic properties of the Haldane phase in spin-1 Heisenberg antiferromagnetic chains, including its persistence in quasi-one-dimensional (Q1D) geometries. Using large-scale numerical simulations, we map out the phase diagram for a realistic model applicable to experimental Haldane compounds. We also investigate the effect of different chain coupling geometries and confirm a general mean-field universality of the critical coupling times the coordination number of the lattice. Inspired by recent developments in the characterization of symmetry protected topological (SPT) states, of which the Haldane phase of the spin-1 Heisenberg antiferromagnetic chain is a preeminent example, we provide direct evidence that the Q1D Haldane phase is indeed a nontrivial SPT state.