Observation of edge waves in a two-dimensional Su-Schrieffer-Heeger acoustic network

Abstract: In this work, we experimentally report the acoustic realization the two-dimensional (2D) Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model in a simple network of air channels. We analytically study the steady state dynamics of the system using a set of discrete equations for the acoustic pressure, leading to the 2D SSH Hamiltonian matrix without using tight binding approximation. By building an acoustic network operating in audible regime, we experimentally demonstrate the existence of topological band gap. More supremely, within this band gap we observe the associated edge waves even though the system is open to free space. Our results not only experimentally demonstrate topological edge waves in a zero Berry curvature system but also provide a flexible platform for the study of topological properties of sound waves.