Repulsive Casimir forces produced in rectangular cavities: Possible measurements and applications

Abstract

We perform a theoretical analysis of a setup intended to measure the repulsive (outward) Casimir forces predicted to exist inside of perfectly conducting rectangular cavities. We consider the roles of the conductivity of the real metals, of the temperature and surface roughness. The possible use of this repulsive force to reduce friction and wear in micro and nanoelectromechanical systems (MEMS and NEMS) is also considered.