Collisional Approach for Open Neutrino Systems

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new collisional framework for neutrino propagation in open quantum systems, deriving a master equation that links decoherence, dissipation, and scattering, with implications for dark matter interactions.

Contribution

The paper develops the Collisional Approach for Open Neutrino Systems (CAONS), a novel method that does not require perturbation theory and connects with non-Hermitian Hamiltonian models.

Findings

Current bounds on decoherence parameters tighten constraints on neutrino-dark matter couplings.

The master equation accurately models neutrino decay and propagation in stationary media.

Connections established between CAONS and non-Hermitian Hamiltonian approaches.

Abstract

We develop a collisional framework for neutrino propagation within open quantum systems, termed the \emph{Collisional Approach for Open Neutrino Systems} (CAONS). A Born-Markov equation is derived, linking decoherence, dissipation, decay rates, and scattering cross sections. Perturbation theory is not required and the resultant master equation is applied to visible and invisible neutrino decays and propagation through a stationary medium. Comparing with previous studies on neutrino decoherence, we show that current bounds on decoherence parameters can significantly tighten constraints on neutrino couplings with dark-matter. Lastly, we establish connections between CAONS and non-Hermitian Hamiltonian approaches.