A viable $L_e-L_\mu$ model with $\mu\to e$ violation

Abstract

We extend the Standard Model gauge group by $U(1)_{L_e-L_\mu}$ and introduce two scalars, a doublet and a singlet, that are charged under this new group and have lepton flavour violating couplings. Since in this model $\mu \to e$ processes can only be mediated by $\mu\to \tau\times \tau\to e$ interactions, bounds from $\mu\to e$ transitions can be avoided while allowing for accessible new physics. We consider the case of a $Z'$ boson with a mass of $M_{Z'}\simeq10~$GeV and a gauge coupling $g'\simeq 10^{-4}$, which is in reach of Belle-II, and a long-lived $Z'$ boson with a mass of $\text{MeV}\lesssim M_{Z'}\lesssim m_\mu-m_e$ which can be probed by searching for $\ell\to \ell'+\text{inv.}$. Neutrino masses and mixing angles can also be accounted for if sterile neutrinos are added to the spectrum.