Large field inflation from D-branes

TL;DR

This paper introduces new large field inflation models using D-branes in string theory, where axion potentials are generated via F-terms, enabling inflation with a flattened potential compatible with observations.

Contribution

It presents a novel class of string-inspired inflation models based on D-branes and axion monodromy, distinct from standard moduli stabilization mechanisms.

Findings

Inflation models achieve large field excursions with flattened potentials.

Models fit current cosmological data within experimental bounds.

D-brane induced axion potentials allow for lower inflaton masses.

Abstract

We propose new large field inflation scenarios built on the framework of F-term axion monodromy. Our setup is based on string compactifications where D-branes create potentials for closed string axions via F-terms. Because the source of the axion potential is different from the standard sources of moduli stabilisation, it is possible to lower the inflaton mass as compared to other massive scalars. We discuss a particular class of models based on type IIA flux compactifications with D6-branes. In the small field regime they describe supergravity models of quadratic chaotic inflation with a stabiliser field. In the large field regime the inflaton potential displays a flattening effect due to Planck suppressed corrections, allowing to easily fit the cosmological parameters of the model within current experimental bounds.