An experimental apparatus for measuring the Casimir effect at large distances

TL;DR

This paper presents an experimental setup to measure the Casimir effect at larger distances than previously possible, utilizing a mechanical resonator and homodyne detection, revealing unexpectedly large forces likely due to patch effects.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel apparatus capable of measuring the Casimir force at separations of 3-10 micrometers, expanding experimental capabilities in this range.

Findings

Detected unexpectedly large Casimir forces at 3-10 micrometers

Force likely influenced by patch effects

Demonstrated feasibility of large-distance measurements

Abstract

An experimental set-up for the measurement of the Casimir effect at separations larger than a few microns is presented. The apparatus is based on a mechanical resonator and uses a homodyne detection technique to sense the Casimir force in the plane-parallel configuration. First measurements in the 3-10 micrometer range show an unexpected large force probably due to patch effects.