Semielastic Dark Matter

TL;DR

This paper explores a dark matter model where the DM mass arises from a singlet VEV coupled to the Higgs, leading to unique recoil signatures and potential detectability in future experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a novel NMSSM-like model linking dark matter mass generation to the Higgs sector, with detailed constraints and benchmark points for experimental detection.

Findings

Distinct recoil spectrum with elastic and inelastic components

Model consistent with relic density constraints

Potential detectability at upcoming direct detection experiments

Abstract

Many models have recently been proposed in which dark matter (DM) couples to Standard Model fields via a GeV-scale dark sector. We consider scenarios of this type where the DM mass, at the electroweak/TeV scale, is generated by the VEV of a singlet which also couples to the Higgs. Such a setup results in a distinct recoil spectrum with both elastic and inelastic components. We construct an explicit NMSSM-like realization of this setup, discuss constraints coming from the relic density, and include benchmark points which are consistent with current limits, yet visible at upcoming direct detection experiments.