Continuum Free-Energy Computing
Statistical Mechanics
2026-03-31 v1
Abstract
Building on nonintrinsic Landau theory, we introduce continuum free-energy computing as a new computing paradigm in which problem instances are encoded in programmable free-energy functionals and solved by intrinsic relaxational dynamics. We identify ion-patterned FeRh as a plausible physical realization through spatial control of the local phase bias, with antiferromagnetic-ferromagnetic interface motion providing the relaxational mechanism. We further identify two representative task classes, a minimal operating protocol, and the main physical constraints.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2603.27239,
title = {Continuum Free-Energy Computing},
author = {Trey Li},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2603.27239},
year = {2026}
}