Quantum fluctuation forces

One of the most intriguing predictions of quantum theory is the possibility for light-matter interactions resulting only from the zero-point, quantum vacuum fluctuations of the photon field. These give rise to quantum fluctuation forces, such as the van der Waals (vdW) and Casimir forces, which underlie diverse physical and chemical phenomena (e.g. molecular attraction) and are relevant to various applications (e.g. quantum information or nanomechanics). It is therefore desirable to explore directions by which one could control and manipulate these forces. To that end, our studies consider the modification of the electromagnetic environment in which the interacting objects are embedded, thus changing the structure of the mediating virtual photons.

Selected publications