Inflation from non-minimally coupled scalar field in loop quantum cosmology

TL;DR

This paper investigates how non-minimally coupled scalar fields influence loop quantum cosmology, revealing modified bounce dynamics and successful inflation with over 60 e-foldings, especially relevant for Higgs-driven inflation models.

Contribution

It introduces a novel analysis of non-minimally coupled scalar fields in LQC, highlighting the impact of frame choice on bounce behavior and inflationary outcomes.

Findings

Modified bounce point not at critical energy density

Planck scale features a 'mexican hat' trajectory with double bounces

Inflation exceeds 60 e-foldings under viable conditions

Abstract

The FRW model with non-minimally coupled massive scalar field has been investigated in LQC framework. Considered form of the potential and coupling allows applications to Higgs driven inflation. Out of two frames used in the literature to describe such systems: Jordan and Einstein frame, the latter one is applied. Specifically, we explore the idea of the Einstein frame being the natural 'environment' for quantization and the Jordan picture having an emergent nature. The resulting dynamics qualitatively modifies the standard bounce paradigm in LQC in two ways: (i) the bounce point is no longer marked by critical matter energy density, (ii) the Planck scale physics features the 'mexican hat' trajectory with two consecutive bounces and rapid expansion and recollapse between them. Furthermore, for physically viable coupling strength and initial data the subsequent inflation exceeds 60 e-foldings.