A new (in)finite-dimensional algebra for quantum integrable models

A new (in)finite-dimensional algebra which is a fundamental dynamical symmetry of a large class of (continuum or lattice) quantum integrable models is introduced and studied in details. Finite-dimensional representations are constructed and mutually commuting quantities-which ensure the integrability of the system-are written in terms of the fundamental generators of the new algebra. Relation with the deformed Dolan-Grady integrable structure recently discovered by one of the authors and Terwilliger's tridiagonal algebras is described. Remarkably, this (in)finite-dimensional algebra is a "q-deformed" analogue of the original Onsager's algebra arising in the planar Ising model. Consequently, it provides a new and alternative algebraic framework for studying massive, as well as conformal, quantum integrable models. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.