Localized nonlinear, soliton-like waves in two-dimensional anharmonic lattices

We discuss here nano-scale size localized wave excitations, which are intrinsic localized traveling modes in two-dimensional anharmonic crystal lattice systems. In particular, using different initial conditions of coordinates and momenta we search for the longest lasting excitations in triangular lattices. As most stable and longest lasting unaltered appear quasi-one-dimensional Toda-like solitons running in rectilinear chains along the main crystallographic axes of such lattices. Furthermore, by following the trace of high energetic excitations like in “bubble chamber” methodology (or in scanning tunneling microscopy) we show how such localized nonlinear waves appearing spontaneously in heated systems can be detected and followed in space–time.

► We discuss soliton-like waves in 2D-lattices.
► Our solitons are long lasting excitations.
► Collision features provide soliton signature.