Measurement of the gradient of the Casimir force between a nonmagnetic sphere and a magnetic plate

TL;DR

This study measures how magnetic properties affect the Casimir force between a nonmagnetic sphere and a ferromagnetic plate, revealing potential for force control and repulsion in nanotech applications.

Contribution

First experimental measurement of the Casimir force gradient involving a ferromagnetic metal plate, highlighting magnetic influence on the force.

Findings

Magnetic properties significantly influence the Casimir force magnitude.

Magnetic materials can enable Casimir force control and repulsion.

Potential applications in nanotechnology and Casimir force manipulation.

Abstract

We measured the gradient of the Casimir force between an Au sphere and a plate made of ferromagnetic metal (Ni). It is demonstrated that the magnetic properties influence the force magnitude. This opens prospective opportunities for the control of the Casimir force in nanotechnology and for obtaining Casimir repulsion by using ferromagnetic dielectrics.