Focus-style proof systems and interpolation for the alternation-free $\mu$-calculus

In this paper we introduce a cut-free sequent calculus for the alternation-free fragment of the modal $\mu$-calculus. This system allows for cyclic proofs and uses a simple focus mechanism to control the unravelling of fixpoints along infinite branches. We show that the proof system is sound and complete and apply it to prove that the alternation-free fragment has the Craig interpolation property.