ABSTRACT
We examine the possibility of generating
net forces on concave isolated objects from backgrounds consisting of randomly
created waves carrying momentum. This issue is examined first for waves at the
surface of a liquid, and second for quantum vacuum electromagnetic waves, both
in relation with a one-side-open rectangular structure whose interior embodies
a large number of parallel reflecting plates. Using known results about the
Casimir-like effect and the original Casimir effect for parallel plates, we explain
why and how such rectangular hollow structures should feel net oriented forces.
We briefly describe real systems that would allow testing these theoretical
results.