Quantum double finite group algebras and link polynomials

Abstract

Unitary representations of the braid group and corresponding link polynomials are constructed corresponding to each irreducible representation of a quantum double finite group algebra. Moreover the diagonal form of the braid generator is derived from which a general closed formula is obtained for link polynomials. As an example, link polynomials corresponding to certain induced representations of the symmetric group and its subgroups are determined explicitly. © 1994, Australian Mathematical Society. All rights reserved.