Two-component scalar dark matter in Z2n scenarios

In multi-component scalar dark matter scenarios, a single Z(N) (N >= 4) symmetry may account for the stability of different dark matter particles. Here we study the case where N is even (N = 2n) and two species, a complex scalar and a real scalar, contribute to the observed dark matter density. We perform a phenomenological analysis of three scenarios based on the Z(4) and Z(6) symmetries, characterizing their viable parameter spaces and analyzing their detection prospects. Our results show that, thanks to the new interactions allowed by the Z(2n) symmetry, current experimental constraints can be satisfied over a wider range of dark matter masses, and that these scenarios may lead to observable signals in direct detection experiments. Finally, we argue that these three scenarios serve as prototypes for other two-component Z(2n) models with one complex and one real dark matter particle.

Automated summary

In multi-component scalar dark matter scenarios, a single Z(N) symmetry is studied for the stability of different dark matter particles, with two species contributing to the observed dark matter density. The analysis of three scenarios shows that new interactions allowed by the Z(2n) symmetry can satisfy current experimental constraints over a wider range of dark matter masses and may lead to observable signals in direct detection experiments. These scenarios can serve as prototypes for other two-component Z(2n) models with one complex and one real dark matter particle.