Ultralocal scalar field models

In this paper the quantum theory of ultralocal scalar fields is developed. Such fields are distinguished by the independent temporal development of the field at each spacial point. Although the classical theories fit into the canonical framework, this is not the case for the quantum theories (with the exception of the free field). Explicit operator constructions are given for the field and the Hamiltonian as well as several other operators, and the calculation of the truncated vacuum expectation values is reduced to an associated single degree of freedom calculation. It is shown that construction of the Hamiltonian from the field, as well as the transition from the interaction to the noninteracting theories entails various infinite renormalizations which are made explicit.