The first day focused on substrates, a key component in high-precision detectors. Presentations highlighted sapphire and float-zone silicon substrates, emphasizing their physical properties and crystal quality that make them ideal for gravitational wave applications. Talks also covered advanced polishing techniques and methods to measure surface absorption and its effect on detector performance. Poster sessions provided additional insights into ongoing research projects and offered opportunities for discussion and exchange on new technologies and applications.
The second session centered on suspension systems, with a focus on float-zone silicon and sapphire fibers for applications such as the Einstein Telescope (ET). Presentations addressed their fabrication, mechanical properties, and breaking strength, as well as precise methods for measuring mechanical losses and characterizing noise - critical factors for optimizing detector sensitivity.
The workshop concluded with a session on coatings, including mixed-oxide and silicon-nitride coatings as well as optical thin films. Talks highlighted advances in low-thermal-noise coatings through ion implantation and optical simulations of ion-implanted layers, demonstrating their importance for next-generation gravitational-wave detection.
The workshop was organized by Iryna Buchovska and Robert Menzel, supported by a scientific committee from European research institutions. The organizing team thanks all speakers and participants who contributed to the poster sessions, lab tours, and the lively scientific discussions that made MAD25 a success.
The full program with all talks and poster presentations is available online: https://indico.ego-gw.it/event/905/timetable/#all
The next MAD Workshop will take place in 2026 in Lyon.
Contact:
Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung (IKZ)
Dr. Iryna Buchovska
Phone: +49 (30) 246499 206
Email: iryna.buchovskaikz-berlin.de
