Framed $\mathbb E_n$-Algebras from Quantum Field Theory

Abstract

This paper addresses the following question: given a topological quantum field theory on $\mathbb R^n$ built from an action functional, when is it possible to globalize the theory so that it makes sense on an arbitrary smooth oriented $n$-manifold? We study a broad class of topological field theories -- those of AKSZ type -- and obtain an explicit condition for the vanishing of the framing anomaly, i.e., the obstruction to performing this globalization procedure. We also interpret our results in terms of identifying the observables as an algebra over the framed little $n$-disks operad. Our analysis uses the BV formalism for perturbative field theory and the notion of factorization homology.