Higher algebraic structures in Hamiltonian Floer theory I

Abstract

This is the first of two papers devoted to showing how the rich algebraic formalism of Eliashberg-Givental-Hofer's symplectic field theory (SFT) can be used to define higher algebraic structures on the symplectic cohomology of open symplectic manifolds. Using the SFT of Hamiltonian mapping tori we show how to define a homotopy extension of the well-known Lie bracket on symplectic cohomology. Apart from discussing applications to the existence of closed Reeb orbits, we outline how the $L_{\infty}$-structure is conjecturally related via mirror symmetry to the extended deformation theory of complex structures.