Algorithmic Discovery of Casimir-Polder forces: Repulsion in the Ground State

TL;DR

This paper introduces a general algorithm that automatically designs structures to produce specific Casimir-Polder forces, demonstrated by creating a geometry that induces repulsion in a ground-state atom, advancing the study of atom-surface interactions.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel, automated method for designing geometries to achieve desired Casimir-Polder forces, enabling automatic discovery of structures without prior assumptions.

Findings

Developed a versatile algorithm for structure design based on force specifications.

Successfully generated a geometry causing repulsive Casimir-Polder force on a ground-state atom.

Discovered new geometric features leading to repulsion independently of user input.

Abstract

We present a general-purpose algorithm for automatic production of a structure that induces a desired Casimir-Polder force. As a demonstration of the capability and wide applicability of the method, we use it to develop a geometry that leads to a repulsive Casimir-Polder force on a ground-state atom. The results turn out to be reminiscent of the ring-like geometries previously used to induce repulsion, but with some new features and -- importantly -- discovered completely independently of any input from the user. This represents a powerful new paradigm in the study of atom-surface forces -- instead of the user testing various geometries against a desired figure of merit, the goal can be specified and then an appropriate geometry created automatically.