Laser surface micro-engineering for industrial applications in Singapore

Some recent research in laser-induced surface ripple structures, surface ablation, surface colouration, and their potential industrial applications are discussed in this article. Both wavelength and sub-wavelength periodic surface structures were observed on semiconductors such as InP and GaN/sapphire surfaces after irradiation of femtosecond laser pulses. The orientation of the periodic structures was dependant on the laser beam polarization, and the period was dependent on the incident laser fluence. Such surface periodic structures may find applications in controlling surface hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties. Excimer laser ablation of epoxy compounds from wafer level chip size packages was found to be a feasible method to expose the micron-size Au bumps for solder reflow, which is a critical process in manufacturing portable electronic products. Studies on controlled surface oxidation by laser pulses showed that a range of colours can be achieved on a stainless steel surface. Selective Cr oxidation and iron oxides were detected. The appearance of colour is the result of the light constructive interference of the transparent oxide layer and is determined by the oxide thickness and the refractive index. The potential industrial applications of the techniques are discussed.