Entrapment of a Network of Domain Walls

TL;DR

This paper investigates a theoretical model where a network of domain walls and junctions in scalar fields can form complex structures, including spherical and fullerene-like configurations, with potential cosmological implications.

Contribution

It introduces a novel model of scalar fields with Z_2 x Z_3 symmetry that produces intricate defect networks and explores their possible shapes and cosmological relevance.

Findings

Formation of hexagonal networks of domain walls with Z_3 symmetry.

Potential creation of spherical and fullerene-like defect structures.

Applications to cosmological defect scenarios outlined.

Abstract

We explore the idea of a network of defects to live inside a domain wall in models of three real scalar fields, engendering the Z_2 x Z_3 symmetry. The field that governs the Z_2 symmetry generates a domain wall, and entraps the hexagonal network formed by the three-junctions of the model of two scalar fields that describes the remaining Z_3 symmetry. If the host domain wall bends to the spherical form, in the thin wall approximation there may appear non-topological structures hosting networks that accept diverse patterns. If Z_3 is also broken, the model may generate a buckyball containing sixty junctions, a fullerene-like structure. Applications to cosmology are outlined.