Surface Functionalization with Lasers: from Nanostructures to Applications

Overview & Synopsis

Pulsed laser sources stand out as remarkable and versatile tools in the growing interdisciplinary field of materials science, offering capabilities for tailoring and customizing materials to meet specific requirements. Their ability to induce different controlled material alterations allows enhancing material properties that might otherwise remain elusive. In essence, laser-induced material modifications encompass a spectrum of transformative processes, ranging from subtle topographical changes in the nano- and microscale, to intricate chemical modifications. Among the challenges to overcome are the creation of approaches that allow tuning the properties of light to optimize interactions on various types of solids, including metals, semiconductors, and dielectrics. Understanding these interactions is paramount towards efficiency increase of the processing techniques. This chapter embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the intricate dance between pulsed laser beams and their interaction with matter at the surface. The applications of laser-induced surface modifications are far-reaching and extend into widespread industrial fields. Examples of these include tribology, where the study of friction, wear, and lubrication is paramount. Besides that, the modified surfaces find applications in wetting phenomena, changing surface energy and contact angle control, enhanced welding processes, and optimizing molecular adhesion for stronger and durable interfaces. The ability to precisely engineer material surface properties through laser processing opens new frontiers in materials and surface sciences, offering innovative solutions and pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in various industrial and technological domains.