Logarithmic scaling correction in quench dynamics of the J1-J2 Potts model

Abstract

In conventional quench dynamics governed by the Kibble-Zurek mechanism (KZM), the defect density generally decays as a pure power law of the quench rate. However, the KZM scaling of the two-dimensional (2D) XY model with topological phase transitions features prominent logarithmic corrections. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether such logarithmic scaling corrections emerge in discrete-spin systems that host two successive topological phase transitions under thermal quenches. This work investigates the J1-J2 antiferromagnetic Potts model and constructs its equilibrium phase diagram. Based on the temperature ranges of the paramagnetic phase, quasi-long-range ordered (QLRO) phase, long-range ordered phase, and zero-temperature ground state, we design four quench protocols with distinct temperature intervals. Our results demonstrate that quenches terminating in the QLRO phase exhibit logarithmically corrected KZM scaling of the excess energy density, consistent with the dynamical universality class of the 2D XY model. In contrast, quenches ending in the LRO phase, including both finite-temperature and zero-temperature protocols, follow conventional power-law scaling. Our results clearly uncover the characteristic scaling corrections of the J1-J2 Potts model and offer theoretical guidance for future experimental investigations of KZM via photonic simulation platforms.