Quantum transport in quasicrystals and complex metallic alloys

Abstract

The semi-classical Bloch-Boltzmann theory is at the heart of our understanding of conduction in solids, ranging from metals to semi-conductors. Physical systems that are beyond the range of applicability of this theory are thus of fundamental interest. This is the case of disordered systems which present quantum interferences in the diffusive regime, i.e. Anderson localization effects. It appears that in quasicrystals and related complex metallic alloys another type of breakdown of the semi-classical Bloch-Boltzmann theory operates. This type of quantum transport is related to the specific propagation mode of electrons in these systems. We develop a theory of quantum transport that applies to a normal ballistic law but also to these specific diffusion laws. As we show phenomenological models based on this theory describe correctly the experimental transport properties. Ab-initio calculations performed on approximants confirm also the validity of this anomalous quantum diffusion scheme. Although the present chapter focuses on electrons in quasicrystals and complex metallic alloys, the concept that are developed here can be useful for phonons in these systems. There is also a deep analogy between the type of quantum transport described here and the conduction properties of other systems where charge carriers are also slow, such as some heavy fermions or polaronic systems.