Constraining primordial black hole masses through $f(R)$ gravity scalarons in Big Bang Nucleosynthesis

Abstract

Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN) is a strong probe for constraining new physics including gravitation. $f(R)$ gravity theory is an interesting alternative to general relativity which introduces additional degrees of freedom known as scalarons. In this work we demonstrate the existence of black hole solutions in $f(R)$ gravity and develop a relation between scalaron mass and black hole mass. We have used observed bound on the freezeout temperature to constrain scalaron mass range by modifying the cosmic expansion rate at the BBN epoch. The mass range of primordial black holes (PBHs) which are astrophysical dark matter candidates is deduced. The range of scalaron mass which does not spoil the BBN era is found to be $10^{-16}-10^4 \text{ eV}$ for both relativistic and non-relativistic scalarons. The window $10^{-16}-10^{-14}$ eV of scalaron mass obtained from solar system constraint on PPN parameter is compatible with the BBN bound derived in this work. The PBH mass range is obtained as $10^6-10^{-14}\text{ }M_{\odot}$. Scalarons constrained by BBN are also eligible to accommodate axion like dark matter particles. The problem of ultra-light PBHs ($M \le 10^{-24} \text{ }M_\odot$) not constrained by the present study of BBN is still open. Estimation of deuterium (D) fraction and relative D+$^3$He abundance in the $f(R)$ gravity scenario shows that the BBN history mimics that of general relativity. While the PBH mass range is eligible for non-baryonic dark matter, the BBN bounded scalarons provide with an independent strong field test of $f(R)$ gravity. The PBH mass range obtained in the study is discussed in relation to future astronomical measurements.