Non-commutative topology and K-theory for applications to topological insulators
Abstract
I will recall basic notions of operator K-theory as a non-commutative (C*-algebra) generalisation of topological K-theory. Twisted crossed products will be introduced as generalisations of group C*-algebras, and a model of Karoubi's K-theory, which makes sense for super-algebras, will be sketched. The motivation comes from physics, through the study of quantum mechanical symmetries, charged free quantum fields, and topological insulators. The relevant theorems, which are interesting in their own right but scattered in the literature, will be consolidated.
Workshop with Tokamak Energy - Is Lithium wall coating the key to fusion energy?
Abstract
We are looking for a better understanding of how a lithium wall can improve energy confinement in a tokamak plasma. Improved energy confinement can make a big difference to the minimum size of tokamak that could produce a fusion power gain.
11:00
"Decidability in extensions of F_p((t))";
Abstract
"We consider certain distinguished extensions of the field F_p((t)) of formal Laurent series over F_p, and look at questions about their model theory and Galois theory, with a particular focus on decidability."
17:00
Non-Newtonian Flows: The mathematics of surfactant mixtures
Abstract
In highly concentrated surfactant solutions the surfactant molecules self-assemble into long flexible "wormy" structures. Properties of these wormlike micellar solutions make them ideal for use in oil recovery and in body care products (shampoo). These properties depend strongly on temperature and concentration conditions. In solution the "worms" entangle, forming a network, but also continuously break and reform, thus earning the name ‘living polymers’. In flow these fluids exhibit spatial inhomogeneities, shear-banding, and dynamic elastic recoil. In this talk a rheological equation of state that is capable of describing these fluids is described The resultant governing macroscale equations consist of a coupled nonlinear partial differential equation system. Model predictions are presented, contrasted with experimental results, and contrasted with predictions of other existing models. Generalizations of the model to allow the capturing of behaviors under changing concentration or temperature conditions, namely power law and stretched exponential relaxation as opposed to exponential relaxation, will be discussed and particularly a mesoscale stochastic simulation network model will be presented.