Casimir effect and graphene: Tunability, scalability, Casimir rotor

Abstract

We study the combined effects of separated parallel disks, birefringence and surface currents on the Casimir force and torque. All three contribute to the Casimir force and surface currents from graphene permit tuning and switching from attraction to repulsion thus allowing for an oscillating Casimir force which can be relevant to parametric amplification applications. Only the latter two contribute to the Casimir torque and their combined effect can enhance the torque by at least tenfold (possibly more) compared to that due to birefringence alone, a hint at a scalable Casimir torque. We also consider a feasible non-contact rotor. © 2018 Author(s).