Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 14, 2026
05:49
Laser Micromachining for Polymer Surface Topography Design
Published on: September 19, 2025
507
Numerical Modelling of Pulsed Laser Surface Processing of Polymer Composites
Krzysztof Szabliński1, Krzysztof Moraczewski1
1Department of Polymer Materials Engineering, Faculty of Materials Engineering, Kazimierz Wielki University, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 13, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a numerical workflow to optimize pulsed-laser surface texturing of polymer coatings, improving groove uniformity by considering scan overlap and plume shielding effects for functional surfaces.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Laser Physics
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Pulsed-laser texturing of filled-polymer coatings offers functional surface properties but suffers from non-uniformity due to scan kinematics and plume shielding.
- Achieving controlled surface modifications for applications like selective metallisation and local conductivity remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a three-tier numerical workflow for predicting and optimizing nanosecond pulsed-laser surface texturing of thermoplastic coatings.
- To investigate the influence of scan overlap, plume shielding, and laser parameters on groove homogeneity and ablation characteristics.
Main Methods:
- A three-tier numerical workflow was developed, integrating models for spatially resolved ablation depth, transient temperature fields, and softened layer redistribution.
- Tier 1 incorporates an incubation law with regime switching and a dynamic shielding factor for raster scanning.
- Tiers 2 and 3 model thermal effects and capillary-driven groove reshaping, respectively, using an effective optical transport model for glass microspheres.
Main Results:
- Scan overlap and shielding dynamics were found to be more critical for groove homogeneity than average laser power.
- Variations in local pulse count and shielding significantly altered depth statistics and ablation regimes, even at identical average power.
- The workflow generated quantitative maps and metrics, demonstrating controlled reflow for smoothing while preserving groove depth.
Conclusions:
- The developed numerical workflow provides a predictive tool for laser parameter selection and process optimization in pulsed-laser surface texturing.
- Understanding the interplay between scan kinematics, plume shielding, and material response is crucial for achieving uniform surface modifications.
- Controlled reflow presents a viable strategy for enhancing surface uniformity in laser-textured polymer coatings.
Related Concept Videos
02:34Polymers
41.4K
The word polymer is derived from the Greek words “poly” which means “many” and “mer” which means “parts”. Polymers are long chains of molecules composed of repeating units of smaller molecules, known as monomers. They either occur naturally, such as DNA and proteins, or can be constructed synthetically, like plastics. They have varied structural characteristics, such as linear chains, branched chains, or complex networks, that contribute to the...
41.4K
01:29Mechanistic Models: Compartment Models in Algorithms for Numerical Problem Solving
324
Mechanistic models play a crucial role in algorithms for numerical problem-solving, particularly in nonlinear mixed effects modeling (NMEM). These models aim to minimize specific objective functions by evaluating various parameter estimates, leading to the development of systematic algorithms. In some cases, linearization techniques approximate the model using linear equations.
In individual population analyses, different algorithms are employed, such as Cauchy's method, which uses a...
In individual population analyses, different algorithms are employed, such as Cauchy's method, which uses a...
324
01:24Numerical Calculations
1.2K
In engineering applications, the representation of the numerical value is critical. Presenting or reporting the answer is one of the essential parts of engineering practices. Numerical calculations are performed using handheld calculators or computers since numerically accurate answers are always preferred.
The solution to a problem is obtained using different methods. While manually solving algebraic symbols is one of the most common methods, the graphical method is often preferred. Computers...
The solution to a problem is obtained using different methods. While manually solving algebraic symbols is one of the most common methods, the graphical method is often preferred. Computers...
1.2K
01:21Pilot and Numeric Relaying
496
Pilot relaying is a type of differential protection used in power systems. It compares electrical quantities at the terminals of equipment via a communication channel instead of direct relay interconnection. This method is essential for transmission lines where the terminals are far apart, typically up to 80 km for lines with 69 to 115 kV ratings. Four types of communication channels are used for pilot relaying:
496
01:16Pulse
2.2K
When the heart pumps blood out, arterial elastic fibers play a crucial role in sustaining a high-pressure gradient. They expand to accommodate the received blood and then recoil - a process known as the pulse that can be either manually palpated or electronically quantified. Despite a reduction in its effect with increased distance from the heart, elements of the pulse's systolic and diastolic components persist, observable even at the arteriole level.
The pulse serves as a clinical...
The pulse serves as a clinical...
2.2K
01:05Pulse
4.2K
The pulse is one of the most fundamental physiological indicators of the body's cardiovascular health. It is the rhythmic expansion and contraction of the arterial walls in response to the pressure generated by the heart's pumping action.
Pulse Rate and its Significance
Pulse rate, often measured in beats per minute (bpm), reflects the heart rate (HR), which is influenced by numerous factors such as stress, physical activity, and hormonal changes. A normal resting adult pulse rate falls...
Pulse Rate and its Significance
Pulse rate, often measured in beats per minute (bpm), reflects the heart rate (HR), which is influenced by numerous factors such as stress, physical activity, and hormonal changes. A normal resting adult pulse rate falls...
4.2K