29. Axiomatising ST-bisimulation equivalence

N. Busi (U. Siena), R.J. van Glabbeek (Stanford) & R. Gorrieri (U. Bologna)

December 1993

A simple ST operational semantics for a process algebra is provided, by defining a set of operational rules in Plotkin's style. This algebra comprises TCSP parallel composition, ACP sequential composition and a refinement operator, which is used for replacing an action with an entire process, thus permitting hierarchical specification of systems. We prove that ST-bisimulation equivalence is a congruence, resorting to standard techniques on rule formats. Moreover, we provide a set of axioms that is sound and complete with respect to ST-bisimulation. The intriguing case of the forgetful refinement (i.e., when an action is refined into the properly terminated process) is dealt with in a new, improved manner.
KEYWORDS: Concurrency, complete axiomatizations, labelled transition systems, structural operational semantics, bisimulation, action refinement, empty process, termination