Quantum gravitational proton decay at high temperature

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential for detecting proton decay induced by quantum gravity effects at high temperatures and densities achievable in fusion facilities, challenging the notion that such decay is only relevant on cosmological timescales.

Contribution

It proposes that quantum gravitational effects on proton decay could be observable at high temperatures, providing a new experimental avenue to investigate quantum gravity.

Findings

Proton decay may occur at detectable rates at high temperatures.

Fusion facility conditions could enable experimental observation of quantum gravity effects.

High-temperature environments increase the likelihood of observing quantum gravitational proton decay.

Abstract

One of the most important challenges of contemporary physics is to find experimental signatures of quantum gravity. It is expected that quantum gravitational effects lead to proton decay but on time scales way beyond what is of any relevance to experiments. At non-zero temperatures there are reasons to believe that the situation is much more favourable. We will argue that at the temperatures and densities reached at present and future fusion facilities there is a realistic possibility that proton decay could be detectable.