Laser-induced surface texturing for structural metals/ceramics/polymers

Surface texture influences tribological and optical properties, and aesthetic features. To gain a fractal surface texture (macro to nano scale) on metals/ceramics/polymers is almost impossible by conventional means (flame, chemical). Today, laser (variable power with pulses) has proved its multiversatility in overcoming the difficulties of conventional means to locally tailor high-value parts’ site-specific surface (roughness, corrosion, abrasion, erosion, hardness) and functional properties (drag, surface energy, adsorption). By controlling laser process characteristics (power density, residence time, scanning path), heat management and chemical composition are tailored to create site-specific surface and functional properties. In this route, functionally satisfied high-value parts’ with service longevity can be obtained economically.