Series expansion studies of the $J_1$-$J_2$-Heisenberg bilayer

Abstract

We study a bilayer of the frustrated $J_1$-$J_2$ Heisenberg-model on the square lattice. Starting from the dimer limit at strong interlayer coupling, we perform series expansions using the perturbative Continuous Unitary Transformation, based on the flow equation method, in order to determine the spectrum up to the two-triplon sector. From the one-triplon dispersion we obtain quantum critical lines for transitions from the dimer phase into either N\'eel or collinear magnetic order. For low to intermediate frustration these transitions are consistent with existing findings, based on the magnetic phases. In the region of strongest frustration, i.e. $J_2/J_1\sim 0.5$, we provide an estimate for the stability of the anticipated single-layer quantum spin-liquids against finite interlayer coupling. In the two-triplon sector we find a set of well defined (anti)bound states, which can be classified according to total spin and in-plane rotational symmetry. For vanishing frustration these states agree with previous series expansion analysis. For $J_2/J_1\gtrsim 0.5$ we provide evidence for a close-by condensation of one-triplon and two-triplon singlet bound states, suggesting that between the dimer and the collinear state, additional phases may intervene.