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7 pages, 242 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial: Special Issue “Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures”

by Peter Simon, Jürgen Ihlemann and Jörn Bonse

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(8), 2054; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11082054 - 12 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2334

Abstract

The study of laser-fabricated periodic nanostructures is one of the leading topics of today’s photonics research [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

Research

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16 pages, 7796 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extreme Sub-Wavelength Structure Formation from Mid-IR Femtosecond Laser Interaction with Silicon

by Kevin Werner and Enam Chowdhury

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(5), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11051192 - 30 Apr 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2876

Abstract

Mid-infrared (MIR) wavelengths (2–10 μ

μ

m) open up a new paradigm for femtosecond laser–solid interactions. On a fundamental level, compared to the ubiquitous near-IR (NIR) or visible (VIS) laser interactions, MIR photon energies render semiconductors to behave like high bandgap materials, while [...] Read more.

Mid-infrared (MIR) wavelengths (2–10 μ

μ

m) open up a new paradigm for femtosecond laser–solid interactions. On a fundamental level, compared to the ubiquitous near-IR (NIR) or visible (VIS) laser interactions, MIR photon energies render semiconductors to behave like high bandgap materials, while driving conduction band electrons harder due to the

λ

^{2}

scaling of the ponderomotive energy. From an applications perspective, many VIS/NIR opaque materials are transparent for MIR. This allows sub-surface modifications for waveguide writing while simultaneously extending interactions to higher order processes. Here, we present the formation of an extreme sub-wavelength structure formation (∼

λ / 100

) on a single crystal silicon surface by a 3600 nm MIR femtosecond laser with a pulse duration of 200 fs. The 50–100 nm linear structures were aligned parallel to the laser polarization direction with a quasi-periodicity of 700 nm. The dependence of the structure on the native oxide, laser pulse number, and polarization were studied. The properties of the structures were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), cross-sectional transmission electron-microscopy (CS-TEM), electron diffraction (ED), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). As traditional models for the formation of laser induced periodic surface structure do not explain this structure formation, new theoretical efforts are needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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13 pages, 3803 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Straightforward Patterning of Functional Polymers by Sequential Nanosecond Pulsed Laser Irradiation

by Edgar Gutiérrez-Fernández, Tiberio A. Ezquerra, Aurora Nogales and Esther Rebollar

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(5), 1123; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11051123 - 27 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2870

Abstract

Laser-based methods have demonstrated to be effective in the fabrication of surface micro- and nanostructures, which have a wide range of applications, such as cell culture, sensors or controlled wettability. One laser-based technique used for micro- and nanostructuring of surfaces is the formation [...] Read more.

Laser-based methods have demonstrated to be effective in the fabrication of surface micro- and nanostructures, which have a wide range of applications, such as cell culture, sensors or controlled wettability. One laser-based technique used for micro- and nanostructuring of surfaces is the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS). LIPSS are formed upon repetitive irradiation at fluences well below the ablation threshold and in particular, linear structures are formed in the case of irradiation with linearly polarized laser beams. In this work, we report on the simple fabrication of a library of ordered nanostructures in a polymer surface by repeated irradiation using a nanosecond pulsed laser operating in the UV and visible region in order to obtain nanoscale-controlled functionality. By using a combination of pulses at different wavelengths and sequential irradiation with different polarization orientations, it is possible to obtain different geometries of nanostructures, in particular linear gratings, grids and arrays of nanodots. We use this experimental approach to nanostructure the semiconductor polymer poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and the ferroelectric copolymer poly[(vinylidenefluoride-co-trifluoroethylene] (P(VDF-TrFE)) since nanogratings in semiconductor polymers, such as P3HT and nanodots, in ferroelectric systems are viewed as systems with potential applications in organic photovoltaics or non-volatile memories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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13 pages, 6690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Initial Morphology and Feedback Effects on Laser-Induced Periodic Nanostructuring of Thin-Film Metallic Glasses

by Mathilde Prudent, Florent Bourquard, Alejandro Borroto, Jean-François Pierson, Florence Garrelie and Jean-Philippe Colombier

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(5), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11051076 - 22 Apr 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2732

Abstract

Surface nanostructuring by femtosecond laser is an efficient way to manipulate surface topography, creating advanced functionalities of irradiated materials. Thin-film metallic glasses obtained by physical vapor deposition exhibit microstructures free from grain boundaries, crystallites and dislocations but also characterized by a nanometric surface [...] Read more.

Surface nanostructuring by femtosecond laser is an efficient way to manipulate surface topography, creating advanced functionalities of irradiated materials. Thin-film metallic glasses obtained by physical vapor deposition exhibit microstructures free from grain boundaries, crystallites and dislocations but also characterized by a nanometric surface roughness. These singular properties make them more resilient to other metals to form laser-induced nanopatterns. Here we investigate the morphological response of Zr₆₅Cu₃₅ alloys under ultrafast irradiation with multipulse feedback. We experimentally demonstrate that the initial columnar microstructure affects the surface topography evolution and conditions the required energy dose to reach desired structures in the nanoscale domain. Double pulses femtosecond laser irradiation is also shown to be an efficient strategy to force materials to form uniform nanostructures even when their thermomechanical properties have a poor predisposition to generate them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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10 pages, 3700 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

On the Insignificant Role of the Oxidation Process on Ultrafast High-Spatial-Frequency LIPSS Formation on Tungsten

by Priya Dominic, Florent Bourquard, Stéphanie Reynaud, Arnaud Weck, Jean-Philippe Colombier and Florence Garrelie

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(5), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11051069 - 22 Apr 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3046

Abstract

The presence of surface oxides on the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) is regularly advocated to favor or even trigger the formation of high-spatial-frequency LIPSS (HSFL) during ultrafast laser-induced nano-structuring. This paper reports the effect of the laser texturing environment on [...] Read more.

The presence of surface oxides on the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) is regularly advocated to favor or even trigger the formation of high-spatial-frequency LIPSS (HSFL) during ultrafast laser-induced nano-structuring. This paper reports the effect of the laser texturing environment on the resulting surface oxides and its consequence for HSFLs formation. Nanoripples are produced on tungsten samples using a Ti:sapphire femtosecond laser under atmospheres with varying oxygen contents. Specifically, ambient, 10 mbar pressure of air, nitrogen and argon, and 10⁻⁷ mbar vacuum pressure are used. In addition, removal of any native oxide layer is achieved using plasma sputtering prior to laser irradiation. The resulting HSFLs have a sub-100 nm periodicity and sub 20 nm amplitude. The experiments reveal the negligible role of oxygen during the HSFL formation and clarifies the significant role of ambient pressure in the resulting HSFLs period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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13 pages, 6331 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Polystyrene Thin Films Nanostructuring by UV Femtosecond Laser Beam: From One Spot to Large Surface

by Olga Shavdina, Hervé Rabat, Marylène Vayer, Agnès Petit, Christophe Sinturel and Nadjib Semmar

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(5), 1060; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11051060 - 21 Apr 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2693

Abstract

In this work, direct irradiation by a Ti:Sapphire (100 fs) femtosecond laser beam at third harmonic (266 nm), with a moderate repetition rate (50 and 1000 Hz), was used to create regular periodic nanostructures upon polystyrene (PS) thin films. Typical Low Spatial Frequency [...] Read more.

In this work, direct irradiation by a Ti:Sapphire (100 fs) femtosecond laser beam at third harmonic (266 nm), with a moderate repetition rate (50 and 1000 Hz), was used to create regular periodic nanostructures upon polystyrene (PS) thin films. Typical Low Spatial Frequency LIPSSs (LSFLs) were obtained for 50 Hz, as well as for 1 kHz, in cases of one spot zone, and also using a line scanning irradiation. Laser beam fluence, repetition rate, number of pulses (or irradiation time), and scan velocity were optimized to lead to the formation of various periodic nanostructures. It was found that the surface morphology of PS strongly depends on the accumulation of a high number of pulses (10³ to 10⁷ pulses) at low energy (1 to 20 µJ/pulse). Additionally, heating the substrate from room temperature up to 97 °C during the laser irradiation modified the ripples’ morphology, particularly their amplitude enhancement from 12 nm (RT) to 20 nm. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to image the morphological features of the surface structures. Laser-beam scanning at a chosen speed allowed for the generation of well-resolved ripples on the polymer film and homogeneity over a large area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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12 pages, 6533 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Self-Organization Regimes Induced by Ultrafast Laser on Surfaces in the Tens of Nanometer Scales

by Anthony Nakhoul, Claire Maurice, Marion Agoyan, Anton Rudenko, Florence Garrelie, Florent Pigeon and Jean-Philippe Colombier

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(4), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11041020 - 16 Apr 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3668

Abstract

A laser-irradiated surface is the paradigm of a self-organizing system, as coherent, aligned, chaotic, and complex patterns emerge at the microscale and even the nanoscale. A spectacular manifestation of dissipative structures consists of different types of randomly and periodically distributed nanostructures that arise [...] Read more.

A laser-irradiated surface is the paradigm of a self-organizing system, as coherent, aligned, chaotic, and complex patterns emerge at the microscale and even the nanoscale. A spectacular manifestation of dissipative structures consists of different types of randomly and periodically distributed nanostructures that arise from a homogeneous metal surface. The noninstantaneous response of the material reorganizes local surface topography down to tens of nanometers scale modifying long-range surface morphology on the impact scale. Under ultrafast laser irradiation with a regulated energy dose, the formation of nanopeaks, nanobumps, nanohumps and nanocavities patterns with 20–80 nm transverse size unit and up to 100 nm height are reported. We show that the use of crossed-polarized double laser pulse adds an extra dimension to the nanostructuring process as laser energy dose and multi-pulse feedback tune the energy gradient distribution, crossing critical values for surface self-organization regimes. The tiny dimensions of complex patterns are defined by the competition between the evolution of transient liquid structures generated in a cavitation process and the rapid resolidification of the surface region. Strongly influencing the light coupling, we reveal that initial surface roughness and type of roughness both play a crucial role in controlling the transient emergence of nanostructures during laser irradiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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15 pages, 34269 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Tuning of LIPSS Wettability during Laser Machining and through Post-Processing

by Michael J. Wood, Phillip Servio and Anne-Marie Kietzig

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(4), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11040973 - 10 Apr 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3410

Abstract

In this work, we investigate the fabrication of stainless-steel substrates decorated with laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic wettability through different post-processing manipulation. In carrying out these experiments, we have found that while a CO₂-rich atmosphere during [...] Read more.

In this work, we investigate the fabrication of stainless-steel substrates decorated with laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic wettability through different post-processing manipulation. In carrying out these experiments, we have found that while a CO₂-rich atmosphere during irradiation does not affect final wettability, residence in such an atmosphere after irradiation does indeed increase hydrophobicity. Contrarily, residence in a boiling water bath will instead lead to a hydrophilic surface. Further, our experiments show the importance of removing non-sintered nanoparticles and agglomerates after laser micromachining. If they are not removed, we demonstrate that the nanoparticle agglomerates themselves become hydrophobic, creating a Cassie air-trapping layer on the surface which presents with water contact angles of 180°. However, such a surface lacks robustness; the particles are removed with the contacting water. What is left behind are LIPSS which are integral to the surface and have largely been blocked from reacting with the surrounding atmosphere. The actual surface presents with a water contact angle of approximately 80°. Finally, we show that chemical reactions on these metallic surfaces decorated with only LIPSS are comparatively slower than the reactions on metals irradiated to have hierarchical roughness. This is shown to be an important consideration to achieve the highest degree of hydro-philicity/phobicity possible. For example, repeated contact with water from goniometric measurements over the first 30 days following laser micromachining is shown to reduce the ultimate wettability of the surface to approximately 65°, compared to 135° when the surface is left undisturbed for 30 days. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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22 pages, 12614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Sulphur Content on Structuring Dynamics during Nanosecond Pulsed Direct Laser Interference Patterning

by Theresa Jähnig, Cornelius Demuth and Andrés Fabián Lasagni

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(4), 855; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11040855 - 27 Mar 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2305

Abstract

The formation of melt and its spread in materials is the focus of many high temperature processes, for example, in laser welding and cutting. Surface active elements alter the surface tension gradient and therefore influence melt penetration depth and pool width. This study [...] Read more.

The formation of melt and its spread in materials is the focus of many high temperature processes, for example, in laser welding and cutting. Surface active elements alter the surface tension gradient and therefore influence melt penetration depth and pool width. This study describes the application of direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) for structuring steel surfaces with diverse contents of the surface active element sulphur, which affects the melt convection pattern and the pool shape during the process. The laser fluence used is varied to analyse the different topographic features that can be produced depending on the absorbed laser intensity and the sulphur concentration. The results show that single peak geometries can be produced on substrates with sulphur contents lower than 300 ppm, while structures with split peaks form on higher sulphur content steels. The peak formation is explained using related conceptions of thermocapillary convection in weld pools. Numerical simulations based on a smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) model are employed to further investigate the influence of the sulphur content in steel on the melt pool convection during nanosecond single-pulsed DLIP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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13 pages, 2322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Femtosecond Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures on 2D Ti-Fe Multilayer Condensates

by Oleksandr V. Kuznietsov, George D. Tsibidis, Anatoliy V. Demchishin, Anatoliy A. Demchishin, Volodymyr Babizhetskyy, Ivan Saldan, Stefano Bellucci and Iaroslav Gnilitskyi

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(2), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11020316 - 27 Jan 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2890

Abstract

2D Ti-Fe multilayer preparation has been attracting increased interest due to its ability to form intermetallic compounds between metallic titanium and metallic iron thin layers. In particular, the TiFe compound can absorb hydrogen gas at room temperature. We applied femtosecond laser pulses to [...] Read more.

2D Ti-Fe multilayer preparation has been attracting increased interest due to its ability to form intermetallic compounds between metallic titanium and metallic iron thin layers. In particular, the TiFe compound can absorb hydrogen gas at room temperature. We applied femtosecond laser pulses to heat Ti-Fe multilayer structures to promote the appearance of intermetallic compounds and generate surface nanostructuring. The surface pattern, known as Laser Induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS), can accelerate the kinetics of chemical interaction between solid TiFe and gaseous hydrogen. The formation of LIPSS on Ti-Fe multilayered thin films were investigated using of scanning electron microscopy, photo-electron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. To explore the thermal response of the multiple layered structure and the mechanisms leading to surface patterning after irradiating the compound with single laser pulses, theoretical simulations were conducted to interpret the experimental observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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10 pages, 5978 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Laser-Induced Transfer of Noble Metal Nanodots with Femtosecond Laser-Interference Processing

by Yoshiki Nakata, Koji Tsubakimoto, Noriaki Miyanaga, Aiko Narazaki, Tatsuya Shoji and Yasuyuki Tsuboi

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(2), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11020305 - 25 Jan 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3482

Abstract

Noble metal nanodots have been applied to plasmonic devices, catalysts, and highly sensitive detection in bioinstruments. We have been studying the fabrications of them through a laser-induced dot transfer (LIDT) technique, a type of laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT), in which nanodots several hundred [...] Read more.

Noble metal nanodots have been applied to plasmonic devices, catalysts, and highly sensitive detection in bioinstruments. We have been studying the fabrications of them through a laser-induced dot transfer (LIDT) technique, a type of laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT), in which nanodots several hundred nm in diameter are produced via a solid–liquid–solid (SLS) mechanism. In the previous study, an interference laser processing technique was applied to LIDT, and aligned Au nanodots were successfully deposited onto an acceptor substrate in a single shot of femtosecond laser irradiation. In the present experiment, Pt thin film was applied to this technique, and the deposited nanodots were measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and compared with the Au nanodots. A typical nanodot had a roundness

f_{r} = 0.98

and circularity

f_{c i r c} = 0.90

. Compared to the previous experiment using Au thin film, the size distribution was more diffuse, and it was difficult to see the periodic alignment of the nanodots in the parameter range of this experiment. This method is promising as a method for producing large quantities of Pt particles with diameters of several hundred nm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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17 pages, 4831 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Icephobic Performance of Multi-Scale Laser-Textured Aluminum Surfaces for Aeronautic Applications

by Stephan Milles, Vittorio Vercillo, Sabri Alamri, Alfredo I. Aguilar-Morales, Tim Kunze, Elmar Bonaccurso and Andrés Fabián Lasagni

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(1), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11010135 - 8 Jan 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3116

Abstract

Ice-building up on the leading edge of wings and other surfaces exposed to icing atmospheric conditions can negatively influence the aerodynamic performances of aircrafts. In the past, research activities focused on understanding icing phenomena and finding effective countermeasures. Efforts have been dedicated to [...] Read more.

Ice-building up on the leading edge of wings and other surfaces exposed to icing atmospheric conditions can negatively influence the aerodynamic performances of aircrafts. In the past, research activities focused on understanding icing phenomena and finding effective countermeasures. Efforts have been dedicated to creating coatings capable of reducing the adhesion strength of ice to a surface. Nevertheless, coatings still lack functional stability, and their application can be harmful to health and the environment. Pulsed laser surface treatments have been proven as a viable technology to induce icephobicity on metallic surfaces. However, a study aimed to find the most effective microstructures for reducing ice adhesion still needs to be carried out. This study investigates the variation of the ice adhesion strength of micro-textured aluminum surfaces treated using laser-based methods. The icephobic performance is tested in an icing wind tunnel, simulating realistic icing conditions. Finally, it is shown that optimum surface textures lead to a reduction of the ice adhesion strength from originally 57 kPa down to 6 kPa, corresponding to a relative reduction of ~90%. Consequently, these new insights will be of great importance in the development of functionalized surfaces, permitting an innovative approach to prevent the icing of aluminum components. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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17 pages, 5735 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Microfabrication and Surface Functionalization of Soda Lime Glass through Direct Laser Interference Patterning

by Marcos Soldera, Sabri Alamri, Paul Alexander Sürmann, Tim Kunze and Andrés Fabián Lasagni

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11010129 - 8 Jan 2021

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4230

Abstract

All-purpose glasses are common in many established and emerging industries, such as microelectronics, photovoltaics, optical components, and biomedical devices due to their outstanding combination of mechanical, optical, thermal, and chemical properties. Surface functionalization through nano/micropatterning can further enhance glasses’ surface properties, expanding their [...] Read more.

All-purpose glasses are common in many established and emerging industries, such as microelectronics, photovoltaics, optical components, and biomedical devices due to their outstanding combination of mechanical, optical, thermal, and chemical properties. Surface functionalization through nano/micropatterning can further enhance glasses’ surface properties, expanding their applicability into new fields. Although laser structuring methods have been successfully employed on many absorbing materials, the processability of transparent materials with visible laser radiation has not been intensively studied, especially for producing structures smaller than 10 µm. Here, interference-based optical setups are used to directly pattern soda lime substrates through non-lineal absorption with ps-pulsed laser radiation in the visible spectrum. Line- and dot-like patterns are fabricated with spatial periods between 2.3 and 9.0 µm and aspect ratios up to 0.29. Furthermore, laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) with a feature size of approximately 300 nm are visible within these microstructures. The textured surfaces show significantly modified properties. Namely, the treated surfaces have an increased hydrophilic behavior, even reaching a super-hydrophilic state for some cases. In addition, the micropatterns act as relief diffraction gratings, which split incident light into diffraction modes. The process parameters were optimized to produce high-quality textures with super-hydrophilic properties and diffraction efficiencies above 30%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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8 pages, 3544 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Femtosecond Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures on Different Tilted Metal Surfaces

by Yi-Hsien Liu, Kong-Kai Kuo and Chung-Wei Cheng

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(12), 2540; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10122540 - 17 Dec 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2415

Abstract

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are used for the precision surface treatment of 3D components. However, with LIPSS, the non-normal incident angle between the irradiated laser beam and the specimen surface occurs. This study investigated LIPSS on four different metals (SUS 304, Ti, [...] Read more.

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are used for the precision surface treatment of 3D components. However, with LIPSS, the non-normal incident angle between the irradiated laser beam and the specimen surface occurs. This study investigated LIPSS on four different metals (SUS 304, Ti, Al, and Cu), processed on a tilted surface by an s-polarized femtosecond fiber laser. A rotated low spatial frequency LIPSS (LSFL) was obtained on SUS 304 and Ti materials by the line scanning process. However, LSFL on Cu and Al materials was still perpendicular to the laser polarization. The reason for the rotated and un-rotated LSFL on tilted metal surfaces was presented. The electron-phonon coupling factor and thermal conductivity properties might induce rotational LSFL on tilted SUS 304 and Ti surfaces. When fabricating LSFL on an inclined plane, a calibration model between the LSFL orientation and inclined plane angle must be established. Hence, the laser polarization direction must be controlled to obtain suitable LSFL characteristics on a 3D surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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14 pages, 19950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Response of NIH 3T3 Fibroblast Cells on Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures on a 15×(Ti/Zr)/Si Multilayer System

by Suzana Petrović, Davor Peruško, Alexandros Mimidis, Paraskeva Kavatzikidou, Janez Kovač, Anthi Ranella, Mirjana Novaković, Maja Popović and Emmanuel Stratakis

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(12), 2531; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10122531 - 16 Dec 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2563

Abstract

Ultrafast laser processing with the formation of periodic surface nanostructures on the 15×(Ti/Zr)/Si multilayers is studied in order to the improve cell response. A novel nanocomposite structure in the form of 15×(Ti/Zr)/Si multilayer thin films, with satisfying mechanical properties and moderate biocompatibility, was [...] Read more.

Ultrafast laser processing with the formation of periodic surface nanostructures on the 15×(Ti/Zr)/Si multilayers is studied in order to the improve cell response. A novel nanocomposite structure in the form of 15×(Ti/Zr)/Si multilayer thin films, with satisfying mechanical properties and moderate biocompatibility, was deposited by ion sputtering on an Si substrate. The multilayer 15×(Ti/Zr)/Si thin films were modified by femtosecond laser pulses in air to induce the following modifications: (i) mixing of components inside of the multilayer structures, (ii) the formation of an ultrathin oxide layer at the surfaces, and (iii) surface nano-texturing with the creation of laser-induced periodic surface structure (LIPSS). The focus of this study was an examination of the novel Ti/Zr multilayer thin films in order to create a surface texture with suitable composition and structure for cell integration. Using the SEM and confocal microscopies of the laser-modified Ti/Zr surfaces with seeded cell culture (NIH 3T3 fibroblasts), it was found that cell adhesion and growth depend on the surface composition and morphological patterns. These results indicated a good proliferation of cells after two and four days with some tendency of the cell orientation along the LIPSSs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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16 pages, 7160 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Superconductivity Changes of Niobium Sheets by Femtosecond Laser-Induced Periodic Nanostructures

by Álvaro Cubero, Elena Martínez, Luis A. Angurel, Germán F. de la Fuente, Rafael Navarro, Herbert Legall, Jörg Krüger and Jörn Bonse

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(12), 2525; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10122525 - 16 Dec 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2910

Abstract

Irradiation with ultra-short (femtosecond) laser beams enables the generation of sub-wavelength laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) over large areas with controlled spatial periodicity, orientation, and depths affecting only a material layer on the sub-micrometer scale. This study reports on how fs-laser irradiation of [...] Read more.

Irradiation with ultra-short (femtosecond) laser beams enables the generation of sub-wavelength laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) over large areas with controlled spatial periodicity, orientation, and depths affecting only a material layer on the sub-micrometer scale. This study reports on how fs-laser irradiation of commercially available Nb foil samples affects their superconducting behavior. DC magnetization and AC susceptibility measurements at cryogenic temperatures and with magnetic fields of different amplitude and orientation are thus analyzed and reported. This study pays special attention to the surface superconducting layer that persists above the upper critical magnetic field strength H_c2, and disappears at a higher nucleation field strength H_c3. Characteristic changes were distinguished between the surface properties of the laser-irradiated samples, as compared to the corresponding reference samples (non-irradiated). Clear correlations have been observed between the surface nanostructures and the nucleation field H_c3, which depends on the relative orientation of the magnetic field and the surface patterns developed by the laser irradiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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9 pages, 5545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formation of the Submicron Oxidative LIPSS on Thin Titanium Films During Nanosecond Laser Recording

by Dmitry A. Sinev, Daria S. Yuzhakova, Mikhail K. Moskvin and Vadim P. Veiko

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(11), 2161; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10112161 - 29 Oct 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3177

Abstract

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSSs) spontaneously appearing on the laser-treated (melted or evaporated) surfaces of bulk solid materials seem to be a well-studied phenomenon. Peculiarities of oxidative mechanisms of LIPSS formation on thin films though are far less clear. In this work, the [...] Read more.

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSSs) spontaneously appearing on the laser-treated (melted or evaporated) surfaces of bulk solid materials seem to be a well-studied phenomenon. Peculiarities of oxidative mechanisms of LIPSS formation on thin films though are far less clear. In this work, the appearance of oxidative LIPSSs on thin titanium films was demonstrated under the action of commercially available nanosecond-pulsed Yb-fiber laser. The temperature and energy regimes favoring their formation were revealed, and their geometric characteristics were determined. The period of these LIPSSs was found to be about 0.7 λ, while the modulation depth varied between 70 and 110 nm, with high stability and reproducibility. It was shown that LIPSS orientation is rather easily manageable in the regimes of our interest, which could provide a way of controlling their properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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14 pages, 7636 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formation of Periodic Nanoridge Patterns by Ultrashort Single Pulse UV Laser Irradiation of Gold

by Andreas Blumenstein, Martin E. Garcia, Baerbel Rethfeld, Peter Simon, Jürgen Ihlemann and Dmitry S. Ivanov

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(10), 1998; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10101998 - 10 Oct 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2805

Abstract

A direct comparison of simulation and experimental results of UV laser-induced surface nanostructuring of gold is presented. Theoretical simulations and experiments are performed on an identical spatial scale. The experimental results have been obtained by using a laser wavelength of 248 nm and [...] Read more.

A direct comparison of simulation and experimental results of UV laser-induced surface nanostructuring of gold is presented. Theoretical simulations and experiments are performed on an identical spatial scale. The experimental results have been obtained by using a laser wavelength of 248 nm and a pulse length of 1.6 ps. A mask projection setup is applied to generate a spatially periodic intensity profile on a gold surface with a sinusoidal shape and periods of 270 nm, 350 nm, and 500 nm. The formation of structures at the surface upon single pulse irradiation is analyzed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM). For the simulations, a hybrid atomistic-continuum model capable of capturing the essential mechanisms responsible for the nanostructuring process is used to model the interaction of the laser pulse with the gold target and the subsequent time evolution of the system. The formation of narrow ridges composed of two colliding side walls is found in the simulation as well as in the experiment and the structures generated as a result of the material processing are categorized depending on the range of applied fluencies and periodicities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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10 pages, 2985 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fabrication of Periodic Nanostructures on Silicon Suboxide Films with Plasmonic Near-Field Ablation Induced by Low-Fluence Femtosecond Laser Pulses

by Tatsuyoshi Takaya, Godai Miyaji, Issei Takahashi, Lukas Janos Richter and Jürgen Ihlemann

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(8), 1495; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10081495 - 30 Jul 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3655

Abstract

Silicon suboxide (SiO_x, x ≈ 1) is a substoichiometric silicon oxide with a large refractive index and optical absorption coefficient that oxidizes to silica (SiO₂) by annealing in air at ~1000 °C. We demonstrate that nanostructures with a groove [...] Read more.

Silicon suboxide (SiO_x, x ≈ 1) is a substoichiometric silicon oxide with a large refractive index and optical absorption coefficient that oxidizes to silica (SiO₂) by annealing in air at ~1000 °C. We demonstrate that nanostructures with a groove period of 200–330 nm can be formed in air on a silicon suboxide film with 800 nm, 100 fs, and 10 Hz laser pulses at a fluence an order of magnitude lower than that needed for glass materials such as fused silica and borosilicate glass. Experimental results show that high-density electrons can be produced with low-fluence femtosecond laser pulses, and plasmonic near-fields are subsequently excited to create nanostructures on the surface because silicon suboxide has a larger optical absorption coefficient than glass. Calculations using a model target reproduce the observed groove periods well and explain the mechanism of the nanostructure formation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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14 pages, 3969 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Large-Area Fabrication of Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures on Fused Silica Using Thin Gold Layers

by Clemens Kunz, Sebastian Engel, Frank A. Müller and Stephan Gräf

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(6), 1187; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10061187 - 18 Jun 2020

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4766

Abstract

Despite intensive research activities in the field of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), the large-area nanostructuring of glasses is still a challenging problem, which is mainly caused by the strongly non-linear absorption of the laser radiation by the dielectric material. Therefore, most investigations [...] Read more.

Despite intensive research activities in the field of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), the large-area nanostructuring of glasses is still a challenging problem, which is mainly caused by the strongly non-linear absorption of the laser radiation by the dielectric material. Therefore, most investigations are limited to single-spot experiments on different types of glasses. Here, we report the homogeneous generation of LIPSS on large-area surfaces of fused silica using thin gold layers and a fs-laser with a wavelength λ = 1025 nm, a pulse duration τ = 300 fs, and a repetition frequency f_rep = 100 kHz as radiation source. For this purpose, single-spot experiments are performed to study the LIPSS formation process as a function of laser parameters and gold layer thickness. Based on these results, the generation of large-area homogenous LIPSS pattern was investigated by unidirectional scanning of the fs-laser beam across the sample surface using different line spacing. The nanostructures are characterized by a spatial period of about 360 nm and a modulation depth of around 160 nm. Chemical surface analysis by Raman spectroscopy confirms a complete ablation of the gold film by the fs-laser irradiation. The characterization of the functional properties shows an increased transmission of the nanostructured samples accompanied by a noticeable change in the wetting properties, which can be additionally modified within a wide range by silanization. The presented approach enables the reproducible LIPSS-based laser direct-writing of sub-wavelength nanostructures on glasses and thus provides a versatile and flexible tool for novel applications in the fields of optics, microfluidics, and biomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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19 pages, 12674 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hierarchical Micro-/Nano-Structures on Polycarbonate via UV Pulsed Laser Processing

by Marek Mezera, Sabri Alamri, Ward A.P.M. Hendriks, Andreas Hertwig, Anna Maria Elert, Jörn Bonse, Tim Kunze, Andrés Fabián Lasagni and Gert-willem R.B.E. Römer

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(6), 1184; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10061184 - 17 Jun 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4971

Abstract

Hierarchical micro/-nanostructures were produced on polycarbonate polymer surfaces by employing a two-step UV-laser processing strategy based on the combination of Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) of gratings and pillars on the microscale (3 ns, 266 nm, 2 kHz) and subsequently superimposing Laser-induced Periodic [...] Read more.

Hierarchical micro/-nanostructures were produced on polycarbonate polymer surfaces by employing a two-step UV-laser processing strategy based on the combination of Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) of gratings and pillars on the microscale (3 ns, 266 nm, 2 kHz) and subsequently superimposing Laser-induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS; 7–10 ps, 350 nm, 100 kHz) which adds nanoscale surface features. Particular emphasis was laid on the influence of the direction of the laser beam polarization on the morphology of resulting hierarchical surfaces. Scanning electron and atomic force microscopy methods were used for the characterization of the hybrid surface structures. Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) calculations of the laser intensity distribution on the DLIP structures allowed to address the specific polarization dependence of the LIPSS formation observed in the second processing step. Complementary chemical analyzes by micro-Raman spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy provided in-depth information on the chemical and structural material modifications and material degradation imposed by the laser processing. It was found that when the linear laser polarization was set perpendicular to the DLIP ridges, LIPSS could be formed on top of various DLIP structures. FDTD calculations showed enhanced optical intensity at the topographic maxima, which can explain the dependency of the morphology of LIPSS on the polarization with respect to the orientation of the DLIP structures. It was also found that the degradation of the polymer was enhanced for increasing accumulated fluence levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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18 pages, 32282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrafast Laser Processing of Nanostructured Patterns for the Control of Cell Adhesion and Migration on Titanium Alloy

by Antoine Klos, Xxx Sedao, Tatiana E. Itina, Clémentine Helfenstein-Didier, Christophe Donnet, Sylvie Peyroche, Laurence Vico, Alain Guignandon and Virginie Dumas

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(5), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10050864 - 30 Apr 2020

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 5266

Abstract

Femtosecond laser texturing is a promising surface functionalization technology to improve the integration and durability of dental and orthopedic implants. Four different surface topographies were obtained on titanium-6aluminum-4vanadium plates by varying laser processing parameters and strategies: surfaces presenting nanostructures such as laser-induced periodic [...] Read more.

Femtosecond laser texturing is a promising surface functionalization technology to improve the integration and durability of dental and orthopedic implants. Four different surface topographies were obtained on titanium-6aluminum-4vanadium plates by varying laser processing parameters and strategies: surfaces presenting nanostructures such as laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) and ‘spikes’, associated or not with more complex multiscale geometries combining micro-pits, nanostructures and stretches of polished areas. After sterilization by heat treatment, LIPSS and spikes were characterized to be highly hydrophobic, whereas the original polished surfaces remained hydrophilic. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) grown on simple nanostructured surfaces were found to spread less with an increased motility (velocity, acceleration, tortuosity), while on the complex surfaces, hMSCs decreased their migration when approaching the micro-pits and preferentially positioned their nucleus inside them. Moreover, focal adhesions of hMSCs were notably located on polished zones rather than on neighboring nanostructured areas where the protein adsorption was lower. All these observations indicated that hMSCs were spatially controlled and mechanically strained by the laser-induced topographies. The nanoscale structures influence surface wettability and protein adsorption and thus influence focal adhesions formation and finally induce shape-based mechanical constraints on cells, known to promote osteogenic differentiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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18 pages, 8651 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Role of the Laser-Induced Oxide Layer in the Formation of Laser-Induced Periodic Surface Structures

by Camilo Florian, Jean-Luc Déziel, Sabrina V. Kirner, Jan Siegel and Jörn Bonse

Nanomaterials 2020, 10(1), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano10010147 - 14 Jan 2020

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 5333

Abstract

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are often present when processing solid targets with linearly polarized ultrashort laser pulses. The different irradiation parameters to produce them on metals, semiconductors and dielectrics have been studied extensively, identifying suitable regimes to tailor its properties for applications [...] Read more.

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are often present when processing solid targets with linearly polarized ultrashort laser pulses. The different irradiation parameters to produce them on metals, semiconductors and dielectrics have been studied extensively, identifying suitable regimes to tailor its properties for applications in the fields of optics, medicine, fluidics and tribology, to name a few. One important parameter widely present when exposing the samples to the high intensities provided by these laser pulses in air environment, that generally is not considered, is the formation of a superficial laser-induced oxide layer. In this paper, we fabricate LIPSS on a layer of the oxidation prone hard-coating material chromium nitride in order to investigate the impact of the laser-induced oxide layer on its formation. A variety of complementary surface analytic techniques were employed, revealing morphological, chemical and structural characteristics of well-known high-spatial frequency LIPSS (HSFL) together with a new type of low-spatial frequency LIPSS (LSFL) with an anomalous orientation parallel to the laser polarization. Based on this input, we performed finite-difference time-domain calculations considering a layered system resembling the geometry of the HSFL along with the presence of a laser-induced oxide layer. The simulations support a scenario that the new type of LSFL is formed at the interface between the laser-induced oxide layer and the non-altered material underneath. These findings suggest that LSFL structures parallel to the polarization can be easily induced in materials that are prone to oxidation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Laser-Generated Periodic Nanostructures)

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