Transverse Λ polarization in semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering -: art. no. 114014

Following a previous description of Lambda and (Lambda) over bar polarization in unpolarized p-p interactions, within a perturbative QCD factorization scheme with new polarizing fragmentation functions, here we investigate the transverse polarization of Lambda's and (Lambda) over bar 's produced in semi-inclusive DIS. Analytical expressions for both neutral and charged current exchange are given. Since quantitative predictions cannot be given at this stage and the comparison with existing data is not yet significant, we present the general formalism and a qualitative analysis displaying generic features of the Lambda and (Lambda) over bar polarization for specific scenarios. Different kinematical situations are considered, corresponding to experiments currently able to study Lambda production in semi-inclusive DIS.