Two-dimensional state sum models and spin structures (Q2018284)

Two-dimensional state sum models were introduced by \textit{M. Fukuma} et al. [Commun. Math. Phys. 161, No. 1, 157--175 (1994; Zbl 0797.57012)] and the algebraic data for their construction was identified with a symmetric Frobenius algebra by F\textit{J. Fuchs} et al. [Nucl. Phys., B 624, No. 3, 452--468 (2002; Zbl 0985.81113)]. \textit{A. D. Lauda} and \textit{H. Pfeiffer} [J. Knot Theory Ramifications 16, No. 9, 1121--1163 (2007; Zbl 1148.57039)] gave a generalization of the state sum model, and the authors of this paper give a further generalization using a non-symmetric Frobenius algebra. Their new models depend not only the topology of a surface, but also its spin structure. Some explicit examples showing dependence on spin structures are presented. A categorical perspective is discussed at the end of the paper.