Quantum noise detects Floquet topological phases

Abstract

We study quantum noise in a nonequilibrium, periodically driven, open system attached to static leads. Using a Floquet Green's function formalism we show, both analytically and numerically, that local voltage noise spectra can detect the rich structure of Floquet topological phases unambiguously. Remarkably, both regular and anomalous Floquet topological bound states can be detected, and distinguished, via peak structures of noise spectra at the edge around zero-, half-, and full-drive-frequency. We also show that the topological features of local noise are robust against moderate disorder. Thus, local noise measurements are sensitive detectors of Floquet topological phases.

4.5 pages + supplemental material; v2: improved presentation and new and updated references