Probing the Electroweak Phase Transition in the Dark Sector

TL;DR

This paper explores a dark sector extension of the Standard Model with a dark SU(2) gauge group, analyzing its phase transition properties and potential gravitational-wave signals detectable by future space-based observatories.

Contribution

It introduces a dark SU(2) gauge extension with a scalar doublet, demonstrating its capability to produce strong first-order phase transitions and viable dark matter candidates.

Findings

Identifies parameter regions with correct relic density

Predicts gravitational-wave signals within detector sensitivity

Shows the model's compatibility with collider and astrophysical constraints

Abstract

We study an extension of the Standard Model with a dark SU(2) gauge group, where a dark scalar doublet interacts with the Standard Model Higgs through a portal coupling, inducing mixing after symmetry breaking. A custodial symmetry ensures the stability of the dark gauge bosons, making them viable dark matter candidates. Scanning the parameter space of the model under collider and astrophysical constraints, we find regions that yield the observed relic density and strong first-order phase transitions. The resulting gravitational-wave signals fall within the reach of upcoming space-based detectors.