Ultra-short-pulse (USP) laser processing of microstructures, many times faster than nanosecond pulsed laser systems, has been achieved with new optics developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT.

Whether for lithographic masks, microsieves or functional surfaces for components or tools that are subject to high tribological stresses, an increasing number of applications require a micro-structured surface – and over an ever-larger area. Nanosecond pulsed lasers are used now because of their cost efficiency.

The surface roughness of a manufactured part can be a critical parameter in industrial production, especially if it’s a moving part like a car engine cylinder or a ball bearing – too rough and it will stick, too smooth and it won’t retain oil. In industry, tactile profilometry, whereby a stylus is dragged over the surface, used to be the method of choice for measuring surface roughness. Now, however, optical profilometry such as confocal microscopy has become more widely used in industry.

While ultraviolet technology is not about to be used for infrared applications, the two wavelengths’ photonic technologies, including optics, loom large over the markets – and improvements in both are driving applications for the microelectronics and defence industries among many others.

Whether it is detecting explosives or heating up incoming mortars or rocket warheads so they destroy themselves, lasers are progressing for defensive applications to defend homelands against terrorists and forward operating bases from insurgents’ attacks.

It is reported that as many as 90 per cent of small businesses fail within the first five years of operation. Very much in that remaining 10 per cent is UK company Laser Support Services, which was founded in 1990 by Grahame Rogers. By that time, Rogers had spent the best part of a decade in the photonics industry, working for Cambridge Lasers UK and Spectra Physics.