On the existence of real R-matrices for virtual link invariants

Abstract

We characterize the virtual link invariants that can be described as partition function of a real-valued R-matrix, by being weakly reflection positive. Weak reflection positivity is defined in terms of joining virtual link diagrams, which is a specialization of joining virtual link diagram tangles. Basic techniques are the first fundamental theorem of invariant theory, the Hanlon–Wales theorem on the decomposition of Brauer algebras, and the Procesi–Schwarz theorem on inequalities for closed orbits.