Speaker
Description
The next-generation gravitational wave observatory, Einstein Telescope, requires coatings with extremely low losses to enhance its sensitivity. Our research focuses on the development and characterization of oxide and nitride coatings deposited using sputtering techniques. We investigate how impurities and stoichiometry influence their properties.
To this end, we have established new laboratories dedicated to optical and mechanical characterizations, including a clean room equipped with a Photothermal Common Path Interferometer for highly precise absorption measurements at 1064 nm and 1550 nm. Furthermore, a dedicated cryostat equipped with a Gifford-McMahon cryocooler and a Gentle Nodal Suspension for dissipation measurements has been designed and produced.
Additionally, we leverage a research facility that provides a scanning electron microscope for morphology analysis, an atomic force microscope for topography, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy for stoichiometric evaluation—all integrated within the same system. Complementary analyses are performed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to investigate surface chemistry and Raman spectroscopy to assess molecular and structural properties.
These comprehensive studies aim to optimize coating performance for future ET applications.
