Validity of the NLS approximation for periodic quantum graphs

We consider a nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation on a spatially extended periodic quantum graph. With a multiple scaling expansion, an effective amplitude equation can be derived in order to describe slow modulations in time and space of an oscillating wave packet. Using Bloch wave analysis and Gronwall’s inequality, we estimate the distance between the macroscopic approximation which is obtained via the amplitude equation and true solutions of the NLS equation on the periodic quantum graph. Moreover, we prove an approximation result for the amplitude equations which occur at the Dirac points of the system.