Laser Direct-Write Processing

Abstract

Direct-write techniques enable computer-controlled two-and three-dimensional pattern formation in a serial fashion. Among these techniques, the versatility offered by laser-based direct-write methods is unique, given their ability to add, remove, and modify different types of materials without physical contact between a tool or nozzle and the material of interest. Laser pulses used to generate the patterns can be manipulated to control the composition, structure, and even properties of individual three-dimensional volumes of materials across length scales spanning six orders of magnitude, from nanometers to millimeters. Such resolution, combined with the ability to process complex or delicate material systems, enables laser direct-write tools to fabricate structures that are not possible to generate using other serial or parallel fabrication techniques. The goal of the articles in this issue of MRS Bulletin is to illustrate the range of materials processing capabilities, fundamental research opportunities, and commercially viable applications that can be achieved using recently developed laser direct-write techniques. We hope that the articles provide the reader with a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities that these powerful techniques offer for the fabrication of novel devices and structures.

Rapid Prototyping of Embedded Microelectronics by Laser Direct-Write

“…A schematic showing the basic components of a laser direct-write system is shown in Figure 1.The fact that the laser transfer process does not require the use of vacuum or cleanroom equipment greatly contributes to the technique's great simplicity and compatibility with virtually any type of material and substrate. These laser transfer techniques, known as laser direct-write or LDW, belong to a class of processes capable of generating high-resolution patterns without the need for lithographic processes afterwards (Arnold & Piqué, 2007a;Piqué & Chrisey, 2002a). To better understand the applicability and potential new uses of laser direct-write and associated laser transfer techniques for digital microfabrication, its useful to compare and contrast them with other well-established digital microfabrication processes such as ink-jet.…”

“…Laser direct-write processes and techniques, also known as LDW offer numerous advantages to the rapid prototyping of embedded microelectronic circuits (Piqué & Chrisey, 2002a). Laser 12 www.intechopen.com direct-write encompasses several laser-based processes that can create patterns directly on substrates without lithography or masks (Arnold & Piqué, 2007a). These non-lithographic processes can add or subtract materials, modify the materials themselves, and transfer or print complete devices or parts.…”

Hyperbolic metamaterial feasible for fabrication with direct laser writing processes

“…Direct laser writing (DLW), based on two-photon polymerization, can enable the fabrication of truly bulk and computer controlled arbitrarily shaped three-dimensional (3D) complex structures [56][57][58][59] that are not possible with traditional photolithographic processes [60]. DLW has an important potential in fabrication of metamaterials, especially at frequencies ranging from mid-IR to visible, since it offers a viable route as a low-cost and rapid prototyping tool for truly 3D fabrication of nanostructures.…”

Enhanced lithographic resolution using longitudinal polarization state of light

“…1 This type of lithography enables formation of complex two-(2-D) and three-dimensional structures. [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13] As with any type of lithography, in laser direct-writing there is also a drive to increase the resolution.…”