Bringing the Direct Laser Interference Patterning Method to Industry: a One Tool-Complete Solution for Surface Functionalization

Direct Laser Interference Patterning is an emerging technology capable to produce micro-and nanostructured surfaces on a wide variety of materials. Although, this method has shown to be capable to produce functionalized surfaces in a one-step process, it will have impact on real applications only if compact systems and solutions are developed. This study shows recent developments of interference patterning optical heads capable to produce periodic patterns at high fabrication speeds (0.1 -5 m/min) as well as to solutions to be integrated in roll-to-roll processes. A concept of an interference patterning system (DLIP-Fab) is also described. Application examples showing control of tribological properties of 100Cr6 steel, cell orientation on patterned polyimide surface as well as the fabrication of high resolution decorative elements are discussed.