Automated, real-time material detection during ultrashort pulsed laser machining using laser-induced breakdown...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Laser Physics
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Ultrashort pulsed lasers enable high-resolution micro/nanomachining.
• Complex composite materials require real-time identification for effective laser processing.
• Current material characterization methods (XRD, XPS, EDS) necessitate process interruption, hindering efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an in-situ material characterization method for laser machining.
• To enable real-time detection and decision-making for on-the-fly laser process adjustments.
• To demonstrate automated material segmentation in 3D images.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for material analysis.
• Implementing a feedback loop system integrating LIBS with the laser machining process.
• Combining consecutive lasering and imaging steps for 3D reconstruction.

Main Results:

• LIBS successfully detected materials in real-time during laser machining.
• The feedback loop allowed for on-the-fly adjustments to the lasering process.
• Automated material segmentation was achieved in 3D images.

Conclusions:

• LIBS is a viable technique for in-situ material characterization in laser machining.
• The proposed method enhances efficiency and enables adaptive processing.
• This approach facilitates automated analysis of complex 3D machined structures.