1999/12/21 by Jörg Sawollek, J. Sawollek, Sawollek, J. · 11 citations
Mathematics · #Advanced Combinatorial Mathematics #Geometric and Algebraic Topology #Homotopy and Cohomology in Algebraic Topology #math.CO #math.GT #msc:57M25
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.math/9912173
17 pages, 11 figures, latex2e, metafont; error in example corrected and minor changes
arxiv created 2001/01/06 · arxiv updated 2009/11/30
A polynomial invariant of virtual links, arising from an invariant of links in thickened surfaces introduced by Jaeger, Kauffman, and Saleur, is defined and its properties are investigated. Examples are given that the invariant can detect chirality and even non-invertibility of virtual knots and links. Furthermore, it is shown that the polynomial satisfies a Conway-type skein relation - in contrast to the Alexander polynomial derived from the virtual link group.