In this talk I will consider a particular statistical model at criticality known as the Staggered Six Vertex model when formulated as a 2 dimensional classical statistical model and as the Alternating XXZ spin chain when formulated as a 1+1 dimensional quantum model. The most striking feature of this model is that it is described, in the continuum limit, by a non-compact conformal field theory, resulting in a continuum of critical exponents. I will present an exact solution of the model with open boundaries and show how the results on the lattice illustrate an RG flow from a non-compact boundary conformal field theory to a compact one.

IPhT