Surface Treatment with Laser

Laser-based surface finishing: Reduce electrical resistance, increase thermal conductivity, integrate self-cleaning

An innovative laser process for surface structuring enables the production of functionalized micro- and nanostructures on a wide variety of materials. These structures impart specific physical or chemical properties to the surfaces – entirely without additional coatings or chemical additives.

New surface properties:

• Water-repellent : Targeted structuring creates a lotus effect that makes water bead up and roll off – ideal for glass, textiles or outdoor surfaces.

• Self-cleaning : Dirt adheres less strongly and can be removed by rain or air currents. On treated aluminum surfaces, 90% of contaminants could be removed with just three drops of water.

• Antibacterial : Microstructures make it difficult for microorganisms to adhere and multiply – useful for medical devices and hygiene applications.

• Low friction : Surfaces with reduced sliding or flow friction help to save energy, for example in mechanical components or fluid systems.

• Anti-reflective and anti-fog : Optical surfaces benefit from higher transparency and lower susceptibility to moisture, e.g. in sensors or displays.

• Improved contact : The surface finish reduces electrical resistance by up to 80%. At the same time, the force required to connect connectors is reduced by approximately 40%.

• Improved heat transfer : By specifically increasing the surface area by 280%, the thermal conductivity could be increased by 24% – an advantage in applications with high thermal stress.

• Bird protection through visible microstructuring : Specially structured glass surfaces make large glass areas visible to birds without significantly impairing the view for humans. This effectively prevents collisions – an important contribution to species conservation in buildings.
  
  
• De-icing : Micro- and nanostructures on glass or metal surfaces enable the controlled drainage of meltwater and prevent ice from adhering. This reduces the energy required for active de-icing and increases safety, for example, in aircraft, vehicles, sensors, or outdoor installations.

Typical applications of laser technology:

• Automotive engineering : Protection and optimization of sensors, electrical contacts and body components.

• Medical technology : Improving biocompatibility and hygiene in implants and instruments.

• Energy technology : Higher efficiencies in heat exchangers, solar panels and turbine components.

• Packaging, consumer goods, mechanical engineering : Functional effects without additional materials or coatings.

• Flat glass industry, architecture and construction: Use of self-cleaning and bird-safe glass on facades and large window surfaces.
  
  

Technological advantages:

• Environmentally friendly : No use of chemicals or coatings is necessary.

• Highly precise and scalable : The structuring is controlled, repeatable and suitable for industrial mass production.

• Sustainable and cost-efficient : Longer product lifespan, improved functionality and resource savings through direct functionalization of the surface.

This laser technology for surface finishing opens up new possibilities for more powerful, longer-lasting and more sustainable products in a wide variety of industries.