Symmetry Breaking and Lattice Kirigami

Abstract

In this work we consider an interacting quantum field theory on a curved two-dimensional manifold that we construct by geometrically deforming a flat hexagonal lattice by the insertion of a defect. Depending on how the deformation is done, the resulting geometry acquires a locally non-vanishing curvature that can be either positive or negative. Fields propagating on this background are forced to satisfy boundary conditions modulated by the geometry and that can be assimilated by a non-dynamical gauge field. We present an explicit example where curvature and boundary conditions compete in altering the way symmetry breaking takes place, resulting in a surprising behaviour of the order parameter in the vicinity of the defect. The effect described here is expected to be generic and of relevance in a variety of situations.