Laser induced forward transfer (LIFT) of materials using 40 ps pulses-experimental and quantitative modelisation study

In this paper we report the results of experiments on LIFT performed using single pulses from a mode locked (40ps pulses), frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser (energy flux ≈ 13J/cm2 at Λ = 532 nm). We studied the controlled transfer of thin films of different metallic materials to a receiving substrate. Optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as well as Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) analysis were performed, showing evidence of the production of micrometric scale patterns. One of our objectives is to investigate and develop possible applications of LIFT in jewellery industry. In order to understand the experimental results we developed a simple analytical model based on the Rankine-Hugoniot relations. Comparison between experimental and simulated results is presented.