Matrix-Test Duality: A Support-Function Characterization for $C^*$-Convex Families of CP Maps
Abstract
We develop a matrix-test dual framework for -convex families of completely positive maps , where is an operator system and is a unital -algebra. Matrix tests induce evaluation functionals and generate a natural weak topology on . Our main result provides a support-function/separation characterization of the -closed -convex hull of a family in terms of matrix-test inequalities. A key technical tool is a finite-dimensional folding procedure that compresses finite linear combinations of test functionals into a single higher-level matrix test. As consequences, we obtain a single-test witness for non-membership, support-function criteria for inclusion and equality of -closed -convex hulls, and, under , an exact normalized bipolar-type reconstruction statement. We also show that is already generated by level- tests, although higher matrix levels remain essential in the geometric test inequalities.
Keywords
Cite
@article{arxiv.2511.13101,
title = {Matrix-Test Duality: A Support-Function Characterization for $C^*$-Convex Families of CP Maps},
author = {Mohsen Kian and Mario Krnic},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2511.13101},
year = {2026}
}