Integer matrix factorisations, superalgebras and the quadratic form obstruction

Abstract: We identify and analyse obstructions to factorisation of integer matrices into products $N^T N$ or $N^2$ of matrices with rational or integer entries. The obstructions arise as quadratic forms with integer coefficients and raise the question of the discrete range of such forms. They are obtained by considering matrix decompositions over a superalgebra. We further obtain a formula for the determinant of a square matrix in terms of adjugates of these matrix decompositions, as well as identifying a $\it co-Latin$ symmetry space.