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W-strings from N=2 Hamiltonian reduction and classification of N=2 super W-algebras

We present an algebraic approach to string theory, using a Hamiltonian reduction of N=2 WZW models. An embedding of sl(1|2) in a Lie superalgebra determines a niltopent subalgebra. Chirally gauging this subalgebra in the corresponding WZW action leads to an extension of the N=2 superconformal algebra. We classify all the embeddings of sl(1|2) into Lie superalgebras: this provides an exhaustive classification and characterization of all extended N=2 superconformal algebras. Then, twisting these algebras, we obtain the BRST structure of a string theory. We characterize and classify all the string theories which can be obtained in this way. Based on a common work of E. Ragoucy, A. Sevrin and P. Sorba, presented by E. Ragoucy at ``Extended and Quantum Algebras and their Applications to Physics'', Nankai Institute in Tianjin (China) August 19-24 1996