LHC and dark matter signals of $Z^$'$$ bosons

We customize the simulation code Fully Exclusive W, Z Production to study Zâ² production at the LHC for both âs=8ââTeV and 14 TeV. Using the results of our simulation for several standard benchmark Zâ² models, we derive a semiempirical expression for the differential cross section that permits the determination of Zâ² couplings in a model-independent manner. We evaluate cross sections and other observables for large classes of models, including the common E6, left-right and B-L models, as a function of model parameters. We also consider a hidden sector Zâ² that couples to standard model fermions via kinetic and mass mixing and serves as a mediator of isospin-violating interactions with dark matter. We combine the results of LHC Zâ² searches and dark matter direct detection experiments with global electroweak data to obtain mass-dependent constraints on the model parameters.