An algebraic approach to coarse graining

We propose that Kreimer's method of Feynman diagram renormalization via a Hopf algebra of rooted trees can be fruitfully employed in the analysis of block spin renormalization or coarse graining of inhomogeneous statistical systems. Examples of such systems include spin foam formulations of non-perturbative quantum gravity as well as lattice gauge and spin systems on irregular lattices and/or with spatially varying couplings. We study three examples which are Z_2 lattice gauge theory on irregular 2-dimensional lattices, Ising/Potts models with varying bond strengths and (1+1)-dimensional spin foam models.