Non-Hermitian Random Matrix Theory of Jamming in Active Disordered Media

Abstract

We develop a theoretical framework for the mechanics of active jammed systems based on non-Hermitian random matrix theory. Starting from a microscopic model of active particles with non-reciprocal interactions, we formulate the linearized dynamical matrix as a non-Hermitian perturbation of a Wishart ensemble describing the passive contact network. Using Girko's Hermitization together with the self-consistent Born approximation, we derive a self-consistent equation for the low-frequency resolvent based on the full Marchenko--Pastur distribution. We show that active non-reciprocity regularizes the soft-mode divergence at the jamming transition, leading to a scaling law for the mechanical compliance. We further establish a crossover between perturbative and activity-dominated regimes and propose a corresponding scaling form near the active jamming point.