Optimal partial regularity for weak solutions of nonlinear sub-elliptic systems in Carnot groups

This paper is concerned with partial regularity for weak solutions to nonlinear sub-elliptic systems in divergence form in Carnot groups. The technique of AA-harmonic approximation introduced by Simon and developed by Duzaar and Grotowski is adapted to our context. We establish Caccioppoli type inequalities and partial regularity with optimal local Hölder exponents for horizontal gradients of weak solutions to systems under super-quadratic natural structure conditions and super-quadratic controllable structure conditions, respectively.