Holographic matter: Deconfined string at criticality

We derive a holographic dual for a gauged matrix model in general dimensions from a first-principle construction. The dual theory is shown to be a field theory of closed loops which includes a compact two-form gauge field coupled with closed loops in one higher-dimensional space. Small fluctuations of the loop fields around a saddle point are identified as propagating strings. Possible phases of the matrix model are discussed in the holographic …