Two-Dimensional Quantum Spin Systems with Ladder and Plaquette Structures

Abstract

We investigate low-energy properties of two-dimensional quantum spin systems with the ladder and plaquette structures, which are described by a generalized antiferromagnetic Heisenberg model with both of the bond and spin alternations. By exploiting a non-linear $\sigma$ model technique and a modified spin wave approach, we evaluate the spin gap and the spontaneous magnetization to discuss the quantum phase transition between the ordered and disordered states. We argue how the spin-gapped phase is driven to the antiferromagnetic phase in the phase diagram.