Proper homotopy types and Z-boundaries of spaces admitting geometric group actions

Abstract

We extend several techniques and theorems from geometric group theory so that they apply to geometric actions on arbitrary proper metric ARs (absolute retracts). A second way that we generalize earlier results is by eliminating freeness requirements often placed on the group actions. In doing so, we allow for groups with torsion. The main theorems are new in that they generalize results found in the literature, but a significant aim is expository. Toward that end, brief but reasonably comprehensive introductions to the theories of ANRs (absolute neighborhood retracts) and Z-sets are included, as well as a much shorter short introduction to shape theory. Here is a sampling of the theorems proved here. THEOREM. If quasi-isometric groups G and H act geometrically on proper metric ARs X and Y , resp., then X is proper homotopy equivalent to Y. THEOREM. If quasi-isometric groups G and H act geometrically on proper metric ARs X and Y , resp., and Y can be compactified to a Z-structure for H, then the same boundary can be added to X to obtain a Z-structure for G. THEOREM. If quasi-isometric groups G and H admit Z-structures (X^, Z_1) and (Y^, Z_2) resp., then Z_1 and Z_2 are shape equivalent.