A random surface representation of Wilson loops in Z(2) gauge theory

Summary, in English

We study a random surface representation of Wilson loops in Z(2) gauge theory. The weights consist of an area factor, which dominates at strong coupling, and an excluded volume factor flavouring crumpled surfaces. We examine the latter one in some detail in three as well as four dimensions by use of Monte Carlo methods. In three dimensions, the critical behaviour of the surfaces is found to be determined to a large extent by the excluded volume factor.