Conformal vector fields and conformal-type collineations in space-times (Q1582425)

This article discusses the existence of homothetic and conformal vector fields in spacetimes with a Killing symmetry. The study of Weyl invariants along the integral curves of the conformal vector fields leads to restrictions for the existence of such fields. A non-existence theorem for proper conformal fields in spacetimes of certain Petrov classes is given. The Bianchi I universe is discussed as an example. The relationship between conformal vector fields and Weyl collineations is studied.