Vilenkin A., Shellard E.P.S. Cosmic strings and other topological defects

Cambridge University Press, 2000. — 580 p. — (Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics). — ISBN: 9780521654760.This book is a comprehensive and coherent introduction to the role of cosmic strings and other topological defects in the universe. After an introduction to standard cosmological theory and the theory of phase transitions in the early universe, the book then describes, in turn, the properties, formation, and cosmological implications of cosmic strings, monopoles, domain walls and textures. It concludes with a chapter considering the role of topological defects in inflationary universe models. Ample introductory material is included to make the book readily accessible. It will be of interest to graduate students and researchers in particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology.The first coherent text on cosmic strings
First author is leading researcher in this area
Particularly thorough bibliography which is very valuable for graduate studentsPhase transitions in the early universe
Topological defects
String field theory
Superconducting strings
String dynamics
String gravity
String interactions
String evolution
Cosmological implications of strings
Structure formation with strings
Cosmology of superconducting and global strings
Domain walls
Monopoles
Textures
Topological defects and inflation