Quantum field-theoretic framework for neutrino decoherence from scattering in a medium
Abstract
We develop a theoretical framework for quantum field description of neutrino evolution in a medium, with a focus on quantum decoherence induced by neutrino scattering on fermions. By deriving a generalized Lindblad master equation that accounts for neutrino momentum-changing transitions, we go beyond the standard treatment that assumes fixed neutrino momentum. Our model explicitly connects decoherence parameters to scattering cross sections, offering a bridge between theoretical predictions and experimental constraints on neutrino quantum decoherence. We apply the developed formalism to several scenarios: 1) neutrino scattering on electrons, 2) neutrino scattering on protons and neutrons through non-standard interactions (NSI), 3) neutrino scattering on dark matter fermions. The obtained results demonstrate that decoherence effects can significantly alter neutrino oscillation patterns and provide a new probe for physics beyond the Standard Model.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2603.25344,
title = {Quantum field-theoretic framework for neutrino decoherence from scattering in a medium},
author = {Konstantin Stankevich and Alexander Studenikin and Maksim Vyalkov},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2603.25344},
year = {2026}
}