The $K_L\to\pi^0\nu\bar\nu$ Decay in Models of Extended Scalar Sector

Abstract

We calculate new contributions to the $K_L\to\pi^0\nu\bar\nu$ decay in models where neutrino Majorana masses require an extension of the scalar sector. First, we study a model where the neutrino mass is induced by the vacuum expectation value of an SU(2)-triplet scalar. Second, we study the Zee model where the Majorana mass comes from one loop diagrams involving a singly charged, SU(2)-singlet scalar. In both models, the Yukawa couplings that involve the new scalar and the neutrinos could be of order one. We find, however, that the contributions to the $K_L\to\pi^0\nu\bar\nu$ decay mediated by the new scalars depend on the neutrino masses rather than the Yukawa couplings and are, therefore, negligibly small.