Laser-based microstructuring of materials surfaces using low-cost microlens arrays
2012
Since frictional interactions in microscopically small components are becoming increasingly important for the
development of new products for all modern technology, we present a laser-based technique for micro-patterning
surfaces of materials using low-cost microlens arrays. The microlens used were fabricated on soda-lime glass using a
laser direct-write technique, followed by a thermal treatment into an oven. By combining laser direct-write and the
thermal treatment it was possible to obtain high quality elements using a low cost infrared laser widely implemented in
industry which makes this technique attractive in comparison with other more expensive methods. The main advantage
of using microlens arrays for micropatterning surfaces is the possibility of fabricating a large number of identical
structures simultaneously, leading to a highly efficient process. In order to study the capabilities of the microlens
fabricated for microstructuring materials, identical structures and arrays of holes were fabricated over a variety of
materials, such us, stainless steel, polymer and ceramic. The minimum diameter of the individual microstructure
generated at surface is 5 μm. Different nanosecond lasers operating at Infrared, Green and UV were used. The
topography and morphology of the elements obtained were determined using a confocal microscope SENSOFAR 2300
Plμ.
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