Topological Sound (1807.09544v1)

Abstract: Recently, we witnessed a tremendous effort to conquer the realm of acoustics as a possible playground to test with sound waves topologically protected wave propagation. Acoustics differ substantially from photonic and electronic systems since longitudinal sound waves lack intrinsic spin polarization and breaking the time-reversal symmetry requires additional complexities that both are essential in mimicking the quantum effects leading to topologically robust sound propagation. In this article, we review the latest efforts to explore with sound waves topological states of quantum matter in two- and three-dimensional systems where we discuss how spin and valley degrees of freedom appear as highly novel ingredients to tailor the flow of sound in the form of one-way edge modes and defect-immune protected acoustic waves. Both from a theoretical stand point and based on contemporary experimental verifications, we summarize the latest advancements of the flourishing research frontier on topological sound.