Applications of surface structuring with lasers

Abstract

Surface properties are significant in determining the applications of a material, and the modifications of surface properties have been drawing wide attention. The properties attracting the most attention include hydrophilicity, microhardness, optical properties, and tribological properties. To modify these surface characteristics, numerous methods have been developed and investigated over the years; however, they have limitations such as the involvement of toxic chemicals or the lack of spatial resolution. Free from these drawbacks, laser surface structuring is a promising method for surface property modifications. It provides high temporal and spatial resolution, noncontact processing and hence can maintain a high degree of purity. It also delivers a high quantum of energy to induce a very high heating and cooling rate, thermal gradient and resolidification rate. In this paper, laser surface structuring is reviewed in two fronts: the topography change, in which a desired surface topography is created, and the microstructure change, which alters the surface crystallinity and crystal structure. Simultaneous modification of topography and microstructure is also considered. Recent studies on the modifications of surface properties and applications caused by laser structuring are reviewed. Future perspectives are also presented.Surface properties are significant in determining the applications of a material, and the modifications of surface properties have been drawing wide attention. The properties attracting the most attention include hydrophilicity, microhardness, optical properties, and tribological properties. To modify these surface characteristics, numerous methods have been developed and investigated over the years; however, they have limitations such as the involvement of toxic chemicals or the lack of spatial resolution. Free from these drawbacks, laser surface structuring is a promising method for surface property modifications. It provides high temporal and spatial resolution, noncontact processing and hence can maintain a high degree of purity. It also delivers a high quantum of energy to induce a very high heating and cooling rate, thermal gradient and resolidification rate. In this paper, laser surface structuring is reviewed in two fronts: the topography change, in which a desired surface topography is created, a...