Researchers have explored the non-Hermitian and interacting Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model to understand the relationship between topology and charge ordering. Using a real-space topological marker, charge correlations, and the many-body complex spectrum, they have mapped the phase diagram under periodic and open boundary conditions. The study reveals that the topological marker remains a robust indicator of non-Hermitian topological phases, even in the presence of interactions, and consistently signals their collapse at the onset of a charge density wave (CDW).

The work demonstrates that non-Hermiticity intensifies interaction effects in the system. Although changes are moderate under periodic boundary conditions, open boundary conditions lead to a notable amplification of alternating charge correlations near exceptional points. This phenomenon is due to the accumulation of low-energy states in the vicinity of these exceptional points, which in turn favors electronic instabilities and reinforces the tendency for charge density wave formation.

This finding suggests new avenues for manipulating and controlling the properties of quantum materials. The ability of non-Hermiticity to enhance interactions could be key in designing future devices with improved electronic or topological properties. Understanding how non-Hermiticity influences the stability of topological phases and the emergence of charge orderings is crucial for condensed matter physics and quantum materials engineering.