Optimal domain spaces in Orlicz-Sobolev embeddings

Abstract: We deal with Orlicz-Sobolev embeddings in open subsets of $\mathbb{R}^n$. A necessary and sufficient condition is established for the existence of an optimal, i.e. largest possible, Orlicz-Sobolev space continuously embedded into a given Orlicz space. Moreover, the optimal Orlicz-Sobolev space is exhibited whenever it exists. Parallel questions are addressed for Orlicz-Sobolev embeddings into Orlicz spaces with respect to a Frostman measure, and, in particular, for trace embeddings on the boundary.