Speakers
Description
The forthcoming era of gravitational wave detectors, exemplified by the Einstein Telescope, demands unprecedented levels of sensitivity. Central to this
progress is the deployment of cryogenic low-frequency interferometers, hinging
on silicon as the mirror substrate material. A critical hurdle lies in mitigating
coating thermal noise, a main limiting factor to detector precision. This project
follows a new approach, using ion implantation to produce novel mirror coatings.
Unlike traditional deposition methods, ion implantation creates coating layers
inside the material instead of on the surface, potentially preserving the low noise
characteristics of the crystalline silicon substrate. By implanting nitrogen ions
into crystalline silicon, we aim to create low-index layers of silicon nitride (SiN)
amidst the crystalline silicon, aiming to optimize the balance between optical
absorption and thermal noise. Additionally, ion implantation promises to circumvent size limitations inherent in crystalline coatings, opening the door to
larger mirrors needed for future gravitational wave detectors. The culmination
of this endeavor lies in thermal noise tests conducted in the ETpathfinder facility. Here, the implanted mirror will be integrated and rigorously evaluated,
providing a demonstration of the anticipated advancements. In conclusion, this
project embarks on a transformative journey, leveraging ion implantation to
revolutionize mirror coatings for gravitational wave detectors. Through extensive simulations, precise implantation, and comprehensive characterization, we
aspire to refine the state-of-the-art in this critical facet of gravitational wave
research.
