On Griess algebras (Q1018754)

In the paper under review, the authors presents a construction of a graded vertex algebra from an commutative algebra. He proves that for any commutative algebra \(A\) with an invariant symmetric non-degenerate bilinear form there is a graded vertex algebra \(V = V_0 \oplus V_2 \oplus V_3\oplus \cdots \), such that \(\dim V_0 = 1\) and \(A \subset V_2\). If \(A\) has a unit \(e\), then \(V\) can be chosen so that \(2e\) is the Virasoro element of \(V\). Moreover if \(G\) is a finite group of automorphisms of \(A\), then \(V\) can be chosen so that \(G\) acts on \(V\). Connections with Griess algebras are also discussed. The paper contains many important constructions and concepts, which are very useful for the theory of vertex algebras and Griess algebras.