Experimental realization of non-Abelian permutations in a three-state non-Hermitian system

Abstract Eigenstates of a non-Hermitian system exist on complex Riemannian manifolds, with multiple sheets connecting at branch cuts and exceptional points (EPs). These eigenstates can evolve across different sheets—a process that naturally corresponds to state permutation. Here, we report the first experimental realization of non-Abelian permutations in a three-state non-Hermitian system. Our approach relies on the stroboscopic encircling of two different exceptional arcs (EAs), which are smooth trajectories of order-2 EPs appearing from the coalescence of two adjacent states. The non-Abelian characteristics are confirmed by encircling the EAs in opposite sequences. A total of five non-trivial permutations are experimentally realized, which together comprise a non-Abelian group. Our approach provides a reliable way of investigating non-Abelian state permutations and the related exotic winding effects in non-Hermitian systems.