Mechanical detectors of scalar dark matter

Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
The aim of this thesis is to present and discuss the use of mechanical devices for dark matter detection and characterize their viability as a dark matter detectors. ☐ We begin by introducing the realm of dark matter and the many possible candidates that exist to explain it. A smaller piece of the dark matter puzzle is identified as the focus of this work in ultralight scalar dark matter. The frequency space and advantageous properties of ultralight scalar dark matter are explored to establish experimental potential stemming from this theoretical framework. ☐ We then introduce relevant concepts of continuum mechanics to provide footing for the topic in terms of well known ideas. Generalizing each mechanical system to the workings of a simple harmonic oscillator allows for a more established approach of an otherwise complex idea. The mechanical definition of strain is also discussed and then related to strain brought about by a dark matter signal in terms of the altered atomic properties of an elastic material. Analytical framework is set to express how one could numerically characterize any arbitrary mechanical system as a viable dark matter detector. ☐ We finally explore two different realms of mechanical dark matter detectors in resonant and broadband schemes. Analytical and numerical results for existing resonant mechanical systems repurposed for dark matter detection are investigated. The results obtained through these methods could hopefully be extended to any arbitrary geometry in the future. Broadband schemes are approached through the development of a fiber-based strain sensor optimized for dark matter detection.
Description
Keywords
Dark Matter, Detectors
Citation