The Kinemetric-Extended Field Equations (KEFE): An Effective Field Theory of Vacuum Rheology and Cosmological Evolution

Version 5-01 (Updated May 3, 2026) (see appendix A for changes with respect to 4-02 and 4-03) Abstract Standard cosmological models frequently require the introduction of dark sector parameters to reconcile General Relativity with macroscopic observations. As a mechanistic alternative, this paper introduces the Kinemetric-Extended Field Equations (KEFE). Formulated as a Wilsonian Effective Field Theory (EFT), the KEFE framework models the macroscopic quantum vacuum as a relativistic, elastoviscoplastic yield-stress continuum governed by causal Mueller-Israel-Stewart (MIS) hydrodynamics. At the microscopic scale, the spatial manifold is modeled as a discrete network of 1-dimensional holographic flux tubes. Within the coarse-grained continuum limit, elementary particles emerge as topologically protected localized resonances. This underlying ontology provides a geometric basis for evaluating fundamental mass parameters. Specifically, the intrinsic mass of the fundamental U (1) defect corresponds to the elastic strain energy contained within a single holographic vacuum voxel. By scaling this discrete boundary condition to the macroscopic causal horizon, the framework yields a predictive derivation of the bare electron mass as a function of the Hubble parameter. This offers a continuum-mechanical mechanism for the empirical Dirac-Eddington-Zeldovich relation. Additionally, the strong-force mass gap (~140 MeV) is evaluated as the macroscopic cohesive yield limit of this topological network. On cosmological scales, KEFE introduces a dynamic, non-minimal coupling field based on the effective vacuum viscosity. This coupling generates a kinematic gradient that naturally yields Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) as a causal decoherence limit. Furthermore, it addresses the Hubble (H₀) and clustering (S₈) tensions through Thermal-Inertial Feedback (TIF) and visco-elastic relaxation during cosmic expansion, while providing a non-singular formulation for gravitational collapse via granular vacuum cores. (A detailed list of addressed topics can be found in appendix B) To test the framework's physical viability, we propose several specific laboratory-scale experiments. As an example, based on the predicted macroscopic visco-elastic stiffening of the vacuum in intense magnetic fields, we outline a variable-B magnetic bottle experiment designed to detect a continuous drift in the free neutron decay lifetime. If confirmed, this effect would offer a deterministic explanation for the persistent neutron lifetime anomaly and provide a direct empirical method to study macroscopic vacuum rheology.