Possible resolution of the Casimir force finite temperature correction "controversies"

Abstract

By considering the effect of diffusion on the external electric field response of charge carriers in metals and semiconductors, it is shown that the finite temperature correction proposed Bostrom and Sernelius requires substantial modification, and there is no large correction as suggested for good conductors. The apparent violation of the Third Law of Thermodynamics of the various proposed temperature corrections to the Casimir force is also resolved. Finally, the effect of Debye screening on electrostatic calibrations between pure germanium surfaces is calculated