Thermodynamic perturbation theory for non-interacting quantum particles with application to spin-spin interactions in solids

Abstract: The determination of the Landau free energy (the grand thermodynamic potential) by a perturbation theory is advanced to arbitrary order for the specific case of non-interacting fermionic systems perturbed by a one-particle potential. Peculiar features of the formalism are highlighted, and its applicability for bosons is indicated. The results are employed to develop a more explicit approach describing exchange interactions between spins of Anderson's magnetic impurities in metals, semiconductors, and insulators. Within the fourth order our theory provides on the equal footing formulae for the Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida, Bloembergen-Rowland, superexchange, and two-electron exchange integrals at non-zero temperature.