Laser-Assisted Fabrication of Polymers by Pushing Down the Limit of Resolution

Abstract

This chapter deals with the latest manufacturing process, especially laser-based manufacturing of polymers with/without surface texturing, for their use in various fields of interest. Lasers have diverse applications in the fabrication of polymers. Lasers can be used from dry etching to soft lithography. This chapter is limited to exploration up to the fabrication of 3D micro/nanostructures in polymers using lasers. The wettability and optical response of these micro-textured polymers can easily be tuned through exposure to a laser of suitable wavelengths. Moreover, laser-assisted manufacturing can help produce extremely complex shapes. It is an excellent choice for functional prototypes, thermal applications, and end-use parts. Although laser-based manufacturing has many advantages that no other manufacturing process possesses, this process is not widely used or recommended. This chapter also extends the discussion to the issues/limitations with laser-based manufacturing and the type of materials being used. At the end, there shall be a discussion on the applications and scope of laser-assisted fabrication of polymers.