Duality and Normal Parts of Operator Modules

Abstract

For an operator bimodule $X$ over von Neumann algebras $A\subseteq\bh$ and $B\subseteq\bk$, the space of all completely bounded $A,B$-bimodule maps from $X$ into $\bkh$, is the bimodule dual of $X$. Basic duality theory is developed with a particular attention to the Haagerup tensor product over von Neumann algebras. To $X$ a normal operator bimodule $\nor{X}$ is associated so that completely bounded $A,B$-bimodule maps from $X$ into normal operator bimodules factorize uniquely through $\nor{X}$. A construction of $\nor{X}$ in terms of biduals of $X$, $A$ and $B$ is presented. Various operator bimodule structures are considered on a Banach bimodule admitting a normal such structure.