Flat connections from flat gerbes

TL;DR

This paper explores the role of n-gerbes with connection in classifying gauge bundles over tori within heterotic-Type I duality, emphasizing the importance of bundle topology in string compactifications.

Contribution

It provides a classification of Spin(32)/Z_2-bundles over tori using the framework of n-gerbes with connection, advancing understanding of gauge bundle topology in string theory.

Findings

Classification of Spin(32)/Z_2-bundles over tori

Role of n-gerbes with connection in bundle topology

Insights into heterotic-Type I duality

Abstract

We discuss some aspects of heterotic-Type I duality. We focus on toroidal compactification, with special attention for the topology of the gauge group, and the topology of the bundle. We review the arguments leading to a classification of Spin(32)/Z_2-bundles over tori, suitable for string compactifications. A central role is played by n-gerbes with connection, a generalization of bundles with connection.