Graphene Oxide Demonstrates Experimental Confirmation of Abraham Pressure on Solid Surface

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• A century-old debate exists between the Abraham and Minkowski theories on light's radiation pressure.
• Direct measurement of surface deformation caused by photon momentum transfer is crucial to resolve this controversy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of radiation pressure on graphene oxide (GO) film surface morphology.
• To probe the bending of GO surfaces and induced strain under focused laser irradiation.

Main Methods:

• Focused low-power laser irradiation of graphene oxide (GO) films.
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to measure surface deformation (bending).
• Raman Spectroscopy to analyze laser-induced uniaxial strain.

Main Results:

• Graphene oxide (GO) films exhibit inward surface bending due to laser radiation pressure, aligning with Abraham's theory.
• Bending diameter and depth show a linear relationship with laser power.
• An abrupt change in depth and diameter at the breaking point indicates GO film thinning.

Conclusions:

• The study provides experimental evidence supporting Abraham's theory of radiation pressure.
• Laser radiation pressure causes measurable surface deformation and strain in graphene oxide films.
• The findings offer a direct method to investigate radiation pressure effects on materials.