Surface functionalization by laser-induced structuring

Abstract

This chapter reviews the possibilities of functionalizing solid surfaces by laser irradiation—i.e. modifying the surfaces with respect to, e.g., wettability, optical properties, friction/wear-control, corrosion resistance, electrical properties. The functionalization occurs via the modification of surface morphology by the laser-induced formation of (regular) nano- to micro-textures. We present the different approaches to generate these patterns as well as their implication for specific functions obtained by this structuring and, finally, show some examples of applications.