M. Simmons, R. Malay
Intellivation LLC,
United States
Keywords: Vacuum coatings, laser patterning, engineered materials, surface morphology, optoelectronics, thin films, interfacial properties
Summary:
Laser techniques for modifying the surface of thin films have garnered significant attention due to their precision, efficiency, and versatility. Laser ablation, laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT), and laser annealing are all prominent methods of modifying vacuum coated thin films ex-situ. These techniques allow for the engineering of surface morphology, functional properties, and patterning of small-scale features into a variety of materials enabling new and unique applications. Interfacial properties can be modified to allow for tunable coefficients of friction, chemically selective interactions, or selective annealing of thin films. Optoelectronic devices can be enhanced via improved light absorption and taking advantage of laser induced surface plasmon effects to improve device performance, such as optical waveguides. Laser techniques even help to enable 4D printing, opening the way for materials that transform over time in response to external stimuli.