Group ring groups. Volume 2: Structure theorems of unit groups. (Q744871)

This is the second part of an excellent two-volume textbook, the first one is [Group ring groups. Volume 1: Orders and generic constructions of units. Berlin: De Gruyter (2016; Zbl 1338.16001)] providing a comprehensive description of units of the integral group ring of a finite group, or more generally, of an order in a finite dimensional semi-simple rational algebra. The two volumes are designed to give the solid basis of a graduate course stretching over two terms. Chapter 14 treats non-abelian free subgroups in the group of units of integral group rings, with classical results as a starting point reaching to recent ones such as extension of Tits' theorem or construction of a free companion to a power of a Bass unit non-torsion modulo the centre. Chapters 15 and 16 utilize geometry borrowing from hyperbolic geometry and tesselations, and provide a new proof of Poincaré's theorem. The final three chapters with these signposts in view, cover Dirichlet fundamental polyhedra, set up and apply an algorithm to calculate the fundamental polyhedron for a discontinuous group of isometries of a Riemannian manifold of constant curvature; study the group of units of an algebra of Kleininan type by calculating the fundamental polyhedron in order to determine generators for the group of units of the integral group ring in the exceptional case; the authors, finishing their story on Group Ring Groups, characterize group rings with groups of units virtually decomposing into the direct product of free-by-free groups. The extensive bibliography allows the curious reader to dig even deeper into a specific matter of concern by consulting the relevant research paper itself. The authors boldly undertook and have auspiciously completed the task of introducing the reader to recent research methods and results with self-contained background, combining an application oriented approach with an inviting style and simple explanations.