Speaker
Description
Due to its low mechanical quality factor and low thermal conductivity at cryogenic temperatures, the so far used material for mirror suspensions, silica, is not suitable to reach the aimed sensitivity goals. Silicon, therefore, is a strong candidate for use in suspension elements due to its favourable properties at low temperatures, including a high mechanical quality factor, excellent thermal conductivity, and a low thermal expansion coefficient. These characteristics are critical for reducing thermal noise and ensuring system stability under cryogenic conditions. To address potential variations in the geometry of silicon suspension wires and further minimise thermal noise, silicon blade springs are being explored. Finite element simulations were used to study potential blade designs with a focus on stress distribution, deformation, and eigenfrequencies. Breaking strength and deflection measurements for prototypes of silicon springblades were performed. Different cutting and postprocessing processes were explored in this context.