The 1+1+2 formalism for Scalar-Tensor gravity

We use the 1+1+2 covariant approach to clarify a number of aspects of spherically symmetric solutions of non-minimally coupled scalar tensor theories. Particular attention is focused on the extension of Birkhoff's theorem and the nature of quasi-local horizons in this context.Comment: 27 pages, accepted versio

A new approach to reconstruction methods in f(R)f(R) gravity

We present a new approach of the reconstruction method based on the use of the cosmic parameters instead of a time law for the scale factor. This allows the derivation and analysis of a set of new non-trivial cosmological solutions for $f(R)$-gravity. A number of simple examples are given.Comment: 5 pages, Revtex

Simultaneous expansion and rotation of shear-free universes in modified gravity

We show in a fully covariant way that, there exist a class of $f(R)$ models for which a shear-free, almost FLRW universe can expand and rotate at the same time .Comment: 4 pages, no figures. Contribution submitted to the proceedings of the Spanish Relativity Meeting ERE2011, September 2011, Madrid, Spai