On the Banach ∗-algebra crossed product associated with a topological dynamical system

Given a topological dynamical system Σ = (X, σ), where X is a compact Hausdorff space and σ a homeomorphism of X, we introduce the Banach ∗-algebra crossed product 1(Σ) most naturally associated with Σ and initiate its study. It has a richer structure than its well investigated C∗-envelope, as becomes evident from the possible existence of non-self-adjoint closed ideals. We link its ideal structure to the dynamics, determining when the algebra is simple, or prime, and when there exists a non-self-adjoint closed ideal. A structure theorem is obtained when X consists of one finite orbit, and the algebra is shown to be Hermitian if X is finite. The key lies in analysing the commutant of C(X) in the algebra, which is shown to be a maximal abelian subalgebra with non-zero intersection with each non-zero closed ideal. © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.