TeV-scale leptoquark searches at the LHC and their E$_6$SSM Interpretation

TL;DR

This paper proposes a new search strategy for leptoquarks at the LHC focusing on fully hadronic decay channels, demonstrating improved sensitivity and interpreting results within the E6SSM framework.

Contribution

It introduces a model-independent search method for LQs in hadronic channels and applies it to the E6SSM, expanding the scope of LQ detection strategies.

Findings

Fully hadronic channel can outperform leptonic searches in sensitivity.

Monte-Carlo analysis supports the proposed search strategy.

Results interpreted within the E6SSM context.

Abstract

We perform a model-independent search for leptoquarks (LQs) at the Large Hadron Collider through their pair-production and subsequent decay into $t\bar t \tau\tau$ intermediate states. We show that, assuming full luminosity of the Run 2, a fully hadronic signal emerging from this intermediate state can surpass in sensitivity the established searches relying on leptons in the final state. Our conclusion is supported by a thorough Monte-Carlo analysis, and we advocate the deployment of our proposed search channel in the proper experimental setting of the Run 3. Furthermore, in order to highlight the full scope of this approach for constraining LQ theories, we interpret our results in the context of the string-inspired Exceptional Supersymmetric Standard Model, which naturally predicts the $S_1-$type scalar LQ states that we analyse here.