Two-neutrino double-beta decay matrix elements based on relativistic nuclear energy density functional

The nuclear matrix elements (NMEs) for two-neutrino double-beta decay ($2 ubetabeta$) are studied in the framework of the relativistic nuclear energy density functional. The properties of nuclei involved in the decay are obtained using relativistic Hartree-Bogoliubov model and relevant nuclear transitions are described using the relativistic proton-neutron quasiparticle random phase approximation (pn-ReQRPA). Three effective interactions have been employed, including density-dependent meson-exchange and point coupling interactions, supplemented with nuclear pairing correlations. The $2 ubetabeta$ matrix elements and half-lives are calculated for several nuclides experimentally known to undergo this kind of decay: $^{48}$Ca, $^{76}$Ge, $^{82}$Se, $^{96}$Zr, $^{100}$Mo, $^{116}$Cd, and $^{128}$Te. The model dependence of the NMEs and their sensitivity on the isoscalar pairing strength $V_0$ is investigated, and the optimized value of this parameter is determined. The results of the present study represent an important benchmark for the future applications of the relativistic framework in studies of neutrinoless double-beta decay.