Inhomogeneous states with checkerboard order in the t-J Model

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We study inhomogeneous states in the t-J model using an unrestricted Gutzwiller approximation. We find that pa× pa checkerboard order, where p is a doping dependent number, emerges from Fermi surface instabilities of both the staggered flux phase and the Fermi liquid state with realistic band parameters. In both cases, the checkerboard order develops at wave vectors (± 2π/pa,0), (0,±2π/pa) that are tied to the peaks of the wave-vector dependent susceptibility, and is of the Lomer-Rice-Scott type. The properties of such periodic, inhomogeneous states are discussed in connection to the checkerboard patterns observed by STM in underdoped cuprates.