Self-interacting scalar dark matter with local $Z_{3}$ symmetry

Understand

We construct a self-interacting scalar dark matter (DM) model with local discrete $Z_{3}$ symmetry that stabilizes a weak scale scalar dark matter $X$.

• The model assumes a hidden sector with a local $U(1)_X$ dark gauge symmetry, which is broken spontaneously into $Z_3$ subgroup by nonzero VEV of dark Higgs field $\phi_X$ ($ \langle \phi_X \rangle \neq 0$).
• Compared with global $Z_3$ DM models, the local $Z_3$ model has two new extra fields: a dark gauge field $Z^{'}$ and a dark Higgs field $\phi$ (a remnant of the $U(1)_X$ breaking).
• After imposing various constraints including the upper bounds on the spin-independent direct detection cross section and thermal relic density, we find that the scalar DM with mass less than $125$ GeV is allowed in the local $Z_3$ model, in contrary to the global $Z_3$ model.