Tuning macroscopic body interactions by manipulation of quantum vacuum photon-modes at the nanoscale

Abstract

We report on a comprehensive theoretical study of a nanostructured cavity system in which we manipulate quantum vacuum photon modes in order to tune the force between cavity boundaries from attractive to repulsive. The presented concept reveals the link between macroscopic forces and the light-matter quantum interactions at the nanoscale. As a case study, the potential interaction energy between a nanopatterned polyethylene slab and a flat polyethylene slab forming a cavity, with a fluid as intervening medium, is calculated. Extremely small corrugations heights appear to be able to turn the interfacial force from attractive to repulsive. This new approach could boost the devices engineering for various applications in surface science.