$f(R)$-Gravity Generated Post-inflationary Eras and their Effect on Primordial Gravitational Waves

Abstract

In this work we shall consider the effects of a geometrically generated post-inflationary era on the energy spectrum of the primordial gravitational waves. Specifically, we shall consider a post-inflationary constant equation of state era, generated by the synergistic effect of $f(R)$ gravity and of radiation and matter perfect fluids. Two cases of interest shall be studied, one with equation of state parameter $w=-1/3$, in which case the Universe neither accelerates nor decelerates, and one with $w=0$ so an early matter domination era. For the evaluation of the inflationary observational indices which is relevant for the calculation of the gravitational waves energy spectrum, we also took into account the effects of the constant equation of state parameter era, on the $e$-foldings number. In both the $w=-1/3$ and $w=0$ cases, the energy spectrum of the primordial gravitational waves is amplified, but for the $w=0$ case, the effect is stronger.