Casimir-Force-Driven Ratchets

T. Emig
Phys. Rev. Lett. 98, 160801 – Published 18 April 2007

Abstract

We explore the nonlinear dynamics of two parallel periodically patterned metal surfaces that are coupled by the zero-point fluctuations of the electromagnetic field between them. The resulting Casimir force generates for asymmetric patterns with a time periodically driven surface-to-surface distance a ratchet effect, allowing for directed lateral motion of the surfaces in sizable parameter ranges. It is crucial to take into account inertia effects and hence chaotic dynamics which are described by Langevin dynamics. Multiple velocity reversals occur as a function of driving, mean surface distance, and effective damping. These transport properties are shown to be stable against weak ambient noise.

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  • Received 26 January 2007

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.160801

©2007 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

T. Emig

  • Laboratoire de Physique Théorique et Modèles Statistiques, CNRS UMR 8626, Université Paris-Sud, 91405 Orsay, France

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Vol. 98, Iss. 16 — 20 April 2007

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