Nonlinearity-Driven Morphing and Control of Topological Modes in Non-Hermitian Systems

Non-Hermitian skin effect (NHSE) and nonlinearity can each delocalize topological zero modes (TZMs) from the boundary. To overcome the challenge of precise parameter tuning imposed by the NHSE-induced delocalization and to enhance the capacity of TZMs limited by nonlinearity-induced partial delocalization in Hermitian systems, we develop non-Hermitian nonlinear topological interface models. This model consists of both Hermitian and non-Hermitian Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) chains, incorporating nonreciprocal hopping and nonlinearity. When the nonlinearity is applied to both chains, the TZM becomes fully delocalized, extending across the entire lattice of two chains without the need for precise parameter tuning. By adjusting nonlinear coefficients in both chains, the wavefunction profile and plateaus across the entire lattice can be effectively controlled and customized through inherent configuration and intensity of the nonlinearity. Furthermore, the spectral localizer is utilized to demonstrate the topological protection of these extended non-Hermitian TZMs, confirming their robustness against disorder. Their dynamical stability under external pumping is also validated. Our findings provide a deeper insight into how nonlinearity and NHSE affect the behavior of topological modes, opening new possibilities for enhancing their capacity and performance in compact devices.
Comment: 5 figures in the main text