Modeling electrostatic patch effects in Casimir force measurements

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quasi-local model for electrostatic patch potentials on metallic surfaces, showing they significantly impact Casimir force measurements and can reconcile experimental data with theoretical predictions at sub-micrometer distances.

Contribution

The paper develops a new quasi-local model for patch potentials, contrasting with previous models, and demonstrates its importance in interpreting Casimir force experiments.

Findings

Patch potentials can significantly influence measured Casimir forces.

The model aligns experimental data with Drude model predictions.

Patch effects are crucial at distances below 1 micrometer.

Abstract

Electrostatic patch potentials give rise to forces between neutral conductors at distances in the micrometer range and must be accounted for in the analysis of Casimir force experiments. In this paper we develop a quasi-local model for describing random potentials on metallic surfaces. In contrast to some previously published results, we find that patches may provide a significant contribution to the measured signal, and may render the experimental data at distances below 1 micrometer compatible with theoretical predictions based on the Drude model.