Quantum Decoherence in a D-Foam Background

Abstract

Within the general framework of Liouville string theory, we construct a model for quantum D-brane fluctuations in the space–time background through which light closed-string states propagate. The model is based on monopole and vortex defects on the worldsheet, which have been discussed previously in a treatment of (1+1)-dimensional black hole fluctuations in the space–time background, and makes use of a T-duality transformation to relate formulations with Neumann and Dirichlet boundary conditions. In accordance with previous general arguments, we derive an open quantum-mechanical description of this D-brane foam which embodies momentum and energy conservation and small mean energy fluctuations. Quantum decoherence effects appear at a rate consistent with previous estimates.