SU(2) slave-rotor theory of the attractive Hubbard model

Abstract

Extending the U(1) slave-rotor representation\cite{FG_SRR} of the repulsive Hubbard model, we propose an SU(2) slave-rotor decomposition for the attractive Hubbard model, where the SU(2) slave-rotor variables represent order parameter fluctuations associated with superconductivity and charge density wave. This decomposition method allows us to modify the standard Hartree-Fock mean field theory by incorporating order parameter fluctuations on an equal footing. Deriving an effective SU(2) slave-rotor action from the attractive Hubbard model, and analyzing it at the mean field level, we demonstrate a second order phase transition driven by softening of the slave-rotor variables.