Simple current extensions and permutation orbifolds in string theory

Abstract

We review extensions by integer spin simple currents in two-dimensional conformal field theories and their applications in string theory. In particular, we study the problem of resolving the fixed points of a simple current and apply the formalism to the permutation orbifold. In terms of string compactifications, we construct permutations of N=2 minimal models and use them as building blocks in heterotic Gepner models.