Multivector Dirac equation and Z(2)-gradings of Clifford algebras

We generalize certain aspects of Hestenes's approach to Dirac theory to obtain multivector Dirac equations associated to a large class of representations of the gamma matrices. This is done by replacing the usual even/odd decomposition of the space-time algebra with more general Z(2)-gradings. Some examples are given and the chiral case, which is not addressed by the usual approach, is considered in detail. A Lagrangian formulation is briefly discussed. A relationship between this work and certain quaternionic models of the (usual) quantum mechanics is obtained. Finally, we discuss under what conditions the Hestenes's form can be recovered and we suggest a geometrical interpretation for the corresponding situation.4191651167