Finite generation of split F-regular monoid algebras

Abstract

Let $S$ be a submonoid of a free Abelian group of finite rank. We show that if $k$ is a field of prime characteristic such that the monoid $k$-algebra $k[S]$ is split $F$-regular, then $k[S]$ is a finitely generated $k$-algebra, or equivalently, that $S$ is a finitely generated monoid. Split $F$-regular rings are possibly non-Noetherian or non-$F$-finite rings that satisfy the defining property of strongly $F$-regular rings from the theories of tight closure and $F$-singularities. Our finite generation result provides evidence in favor of the conjecture that split $F$-regular rings in function fields over $k$ have to be Noetherian. The key tool is Diophantine approximation from convex geometry.

45 pages, comments welcome, minor reorganization in section 3, proofs of some standard results removed, other minor changes