Noncommutative localization is a powerful algebraic technique for constructing new rings by inverting elements, matrices and more generally morphisms of modules. Originally conceived by algebraists (notably P.M. Cohn) it is now an important tool not only in pure algebra but also in the topology of non-simply-connected spaces, algebraic geometry and noncommutative geometry.This volume consists of 9 articles on noncommutative localization in algebra and topology. The aricles include basic definitions, surveys, historical background and applications, as well as presenting new results. The book is an introduction to the subject, an account of the state of the art, and also provides many references for further material.

Dedication; Preface; Historical perspective; Conference participants; Conference photo; Conference timetable; 1. On flatness and the Ore condition J. A. Beachy; 2. Localization in general rings, a historical survey P. M. Cohn; 3. Noncommutative localization in homotopy theory W. G. Dwyer; 4. Noncommutative localization in group rings P. A. Linnell; 5. A non-commutative generalisation of Thomason's localisation theorem A. Neeman; 6. Noncommutative localization in topology A. A. Ranicki; 7. L2-Betti numbers, isomorphism conjectures and noncommutative localization H. Reich; 8. Invariants of boundary link cobordism II. The Blanchfield-Duval form D. Sheiham; 9. Noncommutative localization in noncommutative geometry Z. Skoda.