k-essence induced by derivative couplings of the inflaton

We consider two models which couple derivatives of the inflaton to ordinary matter, both to fermions and to scalars. Such couplings induce changes to the inflaton kinetic energy, analogous to the cosmological Coleman-Weinberg potentials which come from nonderivative couplings. Our purpose is to investigate whether these quantum-induced k-essence models can provide efficient reheating without affecting the observational constraints on primordial inflation. Our numerical studies show that it is difficult to preserve both properties.

Automated summary

In this article, we consider two models that couple derivatives of the inflaton to ordinary matter, including fermions and scalars. Such couplings induce changes to the inflaton kinetic energy, similar to the cosmological Coleman-Weinberg potentials from nonderivative couplings. Our objective is to investigate whether these quantum-induced k-essence models can provide efficient reheating without affecting the observational constraints on primordial inflation. Our numerical studies demonstrate that it is difficult to preserve both properties simultaneously.