Next Generation Design and Prospects for <span style="font-variant: small-caps"><b>Cannex</b></span>

• Main Authors: René I. P. Sedmik, Mario Pitschmann
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-07-01
• Series: Universe
• Subjects: quantum vacuum; Casimir pressure; axion; non-Newtonian gravity
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2218-1997/7/7/234

The Casimir And Non-Newtonian force EXperiment (<span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Cannex</span>) implements the unique geometry of macroscopic plane parallel plates that guarantees an optimum sensitivity with respect to interfacial forces and their gradients. Based on experience from the recently completed proof-of-principle phase, we have started a re-design of the setup aiming to reduce systematic effects and maximize the achievable sensitivity. Several propositions have been made to measure Casimir forces in and out of thermal equilibrium, hypothetical axion and axion-like dark matter interactions, and forces originating from chameleon or symmetron dark energy interactions. In the present article, we give details on the design for the next implementation stage of <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Cannex</span> and discuss the experimental opportunities, as well as limitations expected for this new setup.