Schatten classes for Hilbert modules over commutative C*-algebras

Abstract: We define Schatten classes of adjointable operators on Hilbert modules over abelian $C^*$-algebras. Many key features carry over from the Hilbert space case. In particular, the Schatten classes form two-sided ideals of compact operators and are equipped with a Banach norm and a $C^*$-valued trace with the expected properties. For trivial Hilbert bundles, we show that our Schatten-class operators can be identified bijectively with Schatten-norm-continuous maps from the base space into the Schatten classes on the Hilbert space fiber, with the fiberwise trace. As applications, we introduce the $C^*$-valued Fredholm determinant and operator zeta functions, and propose a notion of $p$-summable unbounded Kasparov cycles in the commutative setting.