Axions and the Graceful Exit Problem in String Cosmology

Abstract

We reexamine the graceful exit problem in the Pre-Big-Bang inflationary scenario. The dilaton-gravity action is generalized by adding the axion and a general axion/dilaton potential. We provide a phase space analysis of the dynamics which leads us to extend the previous no-go theorem and rule out the branch change necessary for graceful exit in this context.

12 pages, latex, no figures