Femtosecond laser-induced three-level micro/nanostructures for zirconia surface modification

The femtosecond laser is a promising surface modification tool for zirconia. The influence of femtosecond laser parameters on the micro/nanostructures and mechanical properties of zirconia, however, is not yet clear. In this work, three-level micro/nanostructures, microgrooves, nanoparticle or striped periodic structures, and moss-like structures, were prepared on the surface of zirconia with a femtosecond laser. The flexural strength of zirconia bars with different surfaces was tested. The measured results of the control, microgrooves with 50 µm width, and microgrooves with 30 µm width were 1273.79±232.65, 1151.40±90.88, and 1232.04±143.19MPa, respectively, with no significant differences.