Quantum annealing in SU(3) multiplet space with nonlocal drivers

Abstract

A theoretical framework for quantum annealing based on $\mathfrak{su}(3)$ algebra is proposed, and applied to the problem of overcoming first-order transitions in rugged energy landscapes. Conservation of the Casimir invariant means that one can work with irreducible representations of $\mathfrak{su}(3)$, avoiding the exponentially large Hilbert spaces of spin glass systems. In this framework, quantum drivers exhibit nonlocal properties in the sense that during annealing the wave function can be transported far away from a local minimum, thereby avoiding being trapped by it. We consider Hamiltonians with two quantum drivers and studied them numerically. It is shown that energy gap closures can be circumvented via a suitable path in the parameter space of the two drivers. Comparison with more traditional annealing driven by transverse field and antiferromagnetic operators suggests that $\mathfrak{su}(3)$ drivers are more effective in attaining the global minimum of rugged energy landscapes.