Researchers from the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology in Lithuania have demonstrated a major leap in precision microlens array fabrication using an industrial-grade femtosecond laser, the EKSPLA FemtoLux 30. Published in the Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices, their study compares femtosecond and picosecond laser pulses for processing fused silica glass – a key material in micro-optics.
The results? Femtosecond lasers outperformed in terms of resolution and surface quality, making them ideal for high-precision applications like advanced sensors and beam-shaping optics. While picosecond pulses offer faster material removal, the femtosecond approach proves superior when detail and finish are critical.
This breakthrough opens new doors for industries relying on micro-optical components, combining scientific innovation with industrial scalability.
Read the full study here: DOI link
Download the paper in pdf format here.
Shown above: Femtosecond industrial laser FemtoLux with harmonics module.
Fig. 1 Topographies of fabricated lens arrays using femtosecond (a) and picosecond (b) duration pulses, with cross-sections (c) along the white line shown in the topographies.
Fig. 2. Topographies of fabricated microlens arrays (a, b) and the image of the whole fabricated optical element (c) after laser polishing. Microlenses were fabricated using femtosecond (a) and picosecond (b) pulses and polished with a CO2 laser.