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.Comment: Published Versio