$F(R)$ Gravity with an Axion-like Particle: Dynamics, Gravity Waves, Late and Early-time Phenomenology

Abstract: In this work we investigate several theoretical and phenomenological implications of a scalar -$F(R)$ gravity containing a non-minimal coupling to the scalar curvature. This kind of model is a generalization of axion-$F(R)$ gravity models, so we shall examine several implications of the latter theory. Firstly we study in detail the Einstein frame picture of the model, and also we discuss the dynamics of the cosmological system. By appropriately using the equations of motion, we demonstrate that an arbitrary cosmological evolution can be realized. Also we study the gravitational waves of the theory, and we demonstrate that the speed of their propagation is the same as in $F(R)$ gravity, but there is the possibility of enhancement or dissipation of the gravitational waves, an effect quite similar to the propagation of gravity waves in a viscous fluid. Finally, we examine the energy momentum tensor and we investigate which quantities related to it are conserved. We also present the constraints imposed by the radiation domination era on the non-minimal coupling of the axion scalar field to the scalar curvature.