Boundary Conformal Field Theory and the Worldsheet Approach to D-Branes

Boundary conformal field theory is concerned with a class of two-dimensional quantum field theories which display a rich mathematical structure and have many applications ranging from string theory to condensed matter physics. In particular, the framework allows discussion of strings and branes directly at the quantum level. Written by internationally renowned experts, this comprehensive introduction to boundary conformal field theory reaches from theoretical foundations to recent developments, with an emphasis on the algebraic treatment of string backgrounds. Topics covered include basic concepts in conformal field theory with and without boundaries, the mathematical description of strings and D-branes, and the geometry of strongly curved spacetime. The book offers insights into string geometry that go beyond classical notions. Describing the theory from basic concepts, and providing numerous worked examples from conformal field theory and string theory, this reference is of interest to graduate students and researchers in physics and mathematics.

• Describes recent developments in boundary conformal field theory with an emphasis on the algebraic treatment of string backgrounds
• Contains numerous worked examples from rational and non-rational conformal field theory
• Written by internationally renowned experts in conformal field theory and the worldsheet approach to string theory