Systematics of type IIB moduli stabilisation with odd axions

Abstract

Moduli stabilisation in superstring compactifications on Calabi-Yau orientifolds remains a key challenge in the search for realistic string vacua. In particular, odd moduli arising from the reduction of 2-forms $(B_2,C_2)$ in type IIB are largely unexplored despite their relevance for inflationary model building. This article provides novel insights into the general structure of 4D $\mathcal{N}=1$ $F$-term scalar potentials at higher orders in the $\alpha^{\prime}$ and $g_{s}$ expansion for arbitrary Hodge numbers. We systematically examine superpotential contributions with distinct moduli dependences which are induced by fluxes or non-perturbative effects. Initially, we prove the existence of a no-scale structure for odd moduli in the presence of $(\alpha^\prime)^{3}$ corrections to the K\"ahler potential. By studying a partially $\mathrm{SL}(2,\mathbb{Z})$-completed form of the K\"ahler potential, we derive the exact no-scale breaking effects at the closed string $1$-loop and non-perturbative D-instanton level. These observations allow us to present rigorous expressions for the $F$-term scalar potential applicable to arbitrary numbers of moduli in type IIB Calabi-Yau orientifold compactifications. Finally, we compute the Hessian for odd moduli and discuss potential phenomenological implications.