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Gilles Magain

Research Description

Gilles’ research focuses on the development of monocrystalline silicon fibres
as suspension elements for the test mass in the ETEST prototype. The goal is
to operate at cryogenic temperatures in order to achieve low seismic noise
below 10 Hz.

The use of silicon is motivated by its high mechanical quality factor, which
enables low thermal noise. However, the mechanical properties of silicon make
this design particularly challenging, requiring careful optimisation of
geometry, material processing, and integration within the suspension system.

Research Interests

  • Control
  • Mechanical Design
  • Cryogenic Systems
  • Precision Engineering
  • Vibration Isolation