Multifunctional CFRP interfacial engineering via 355 nm laser-induced LIPSS

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Optics

Background:

• Conventional nanopatterning is slow and expensive.
• Nanoscale textures offer advanced material functionalities.
• Carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are versatile engineering materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid, single-step method for fabricating nanoscale periodic surface textures on CFRPs.
• To investigate the underlying physics of texture formation.
• To demonstrate the imparted functionalities for various applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of centimeter-scale laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) using a 355 nm, 10 ps laser.
• Analysis of LIPSS period dependence on laser polarization.
• Electromagnetic simulations and experimental validation of the photonic-plasmonic mechanism involving surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs).

Main Results:

• Achieved highly uniform LIPSS with a period of approximately 100 nm, dictated by laser polarization.
• Demonstrated superhydrophilicity (contact angle ≤5°) and increased surface roughness, enhancing adhesion.
• Observed a significant increase in surface potential and reduced surface resistance, suitable for electronic applications.
• Confirmed accelerated carrier relaxation dynamics for optoelectronic performance.

Conclusions:

• The study presents a scalable, deterministic method for nanopatterning CFRPs using laser-induced periodic surface structures.
• A photonic-plasmonic mechanism involving SPPs governs the formation of these nanostructures.
• The resulting textures impart valuable functionalities for enhanced interfacial bonding, electronic devices, and optoelectronic applications.