Probing R-violating top quark decays at the NLC

We examine the possibility of observing exotic top quark decays via R-parit y violating SUSY interactions in e(+)e(-) collisions at roots = 500 GeV. We present cross-sections for tt production followed by the subsequent decay of either the t or (t) over bar via the R-parity violating interaction whil e the other undergoes the SM decay. We discuss kinematic cuts that allow th e exotic SUSY decays to be detected over standard model backgrounds. Discov ery limits for R-parity violating couplings in the top sector are presented assuming an integrated luminosity of 100 fb(-1). (C) 2001 Published by Els evier Science B.V.