Dark matter stability and one-loop neutrino mass generation based on Peccei-Quinn symmetry

TL;DR

This paper introduces a model extending the KSVZ axion framework with an inert doublet scalar, where Peccei-Quinn symmetry prevents tree-level neutrino masses and ensures dark matter stability, generating neutrino masses via one-loop effects.

Contribution

It presents a novel model linking axion physics with neutrino mass generation and dark matter stability, avoiding the strong CP problem.

Findings

Neutrino masses generated at one-loop level.

Dark matter stability guaranteed by remnant $Z_2$ symmetry.

Model free from the strong $CP$ problem.

Abstract

We propose a model which is a simple extension of the KSVZ invisible axion model with an inert doublet scalar. Peccei-Quinn symmetry forbids tree-level neutrino mass generation and its remnant $Z_2$ symmetry guarantees dark matter stability. The neutrino masses are generated by one-loop effects as a result of the breaking of Peccei-Quinn symmetry through a nonrenormalizable interaction. Although the low energy effective model coincides with an original scotogenic model which contains right-handed neutrinos with large masses, it is free from the strong $CP$ problem.