Fluctuation-induced Interactions in Micro- and Nano-systems: Survey of Some Basic Results

Abstract: On the examples of the quantum-electrodynamical Casimir force, as well as critical Casimir and Helmholtz forces, we present a review of some results available for the class of fluctuation induced forces. In addition, we also concisely present examples of other such fluctuation-induced forces. On the instance of the Ising model we discuss the connection between the Casimir and Helmholtz forces. We discuss the importance of the presented results for the nanotechnology, and especially for devising micro- or nano-systems, and for their assembly. Some important problems for the nanotechnology, following from the currently available experimental findings, are spelled out and possible strategies for their overcoming are outlined.