Comment on "Application of the Lifshitz theory to poor conductors" [arXiv:0809.3901]

TL;DR

This paper critically examines a recent claim that the Lifshitz theory with nonlocal dielectric permittivities aligns with experimental data and thermodynamic principles, and finds the claim to be incorrect due to flawed analysis.

Contribution

The paper provides a detailed critique demonstrating that the previous claims about Lifshitz theory's consistency with experiments and Nernst's theorem are invalid.

Findings

The claims in the referenced Letter are based on irregular data comparison.

Misinterpretation of physical quantities led to incorrect conclusions.

The critique clarifies the proper application of Lifshitz theory.

Abstract

Recent Letter by V. B. Svetovoy [Phys. Rev. Lett. v.101, 163603 (2008), arXiv:0809.3901] claims that the Lifshitz theory combined with spatially nonlocal dielectric permittivities is consistent with the experimental data and Nernst's theorem. We prove that these claims are incorrect. They are based on irregular comparison with the data and misinterpretation of relevant physical quantities.