Abstract
The Casimir-Lifshitz force originates from the quantum vacuum fluctuations of the electromagnetic field. This force is especially intense between interacting objects at nanoscale distances, and it can be attractive or repulsive depending on the optical properties of the materials (amongst other parameters). This fundamental phenomenon is at the heart of the malfunctioning of nano- and micro-electromechanical devices (NEMS and MEMS) that integrate many of the gadgets we use in our daily lives. Absolute control over these forces would make it possible to suppress adhesion and friction in these NEMs and MEMs. Here, we will show the possibility of controlling the Casimir-Lifshitz force by tuning the optical properties of the interacting objects. Specifically, we will present diverse examples of quantum levitation based on the Casimir-Lifshitz force of self-standing thin films comprising multilayer structures and films with spatial inhomogeneities (caused by imperfections, pores, inclusions, density variations, etc).