Dualities and Topological Classification of the $S=1$ Pyrochlore Spin Ice

Abstract

We derive dual descriptions of the trivial paramagnetic, ${\mathbb{Z}}_2$-deconfined, and ${\mathbb{Z}}_2$-confined U(1) Coulomb phases of the $S=1$ pyrochlore spin ice. In the monopole-free limit, the system can be effectively mapped onto 3D $XY$ and Ising loop-gas models depending on the spin anisotropy, which provides theoretical estimates for the phase boundaries, while a macroscopic flux vector classifies the topological sectors via geometric parity rules. Thermal unit monopoles permit endpoints of both directed spin loops and unoriented vacancy loops. The resulting relevant symmetry-breaking fields in the dual $XY$ and Ising descriptions predict rounded crossovers near the monopole-free critical points. Monte Carlo simulations support this monopole-induced rounding.

arXiv comment8+11 pages, 2+6 figures, 1 table