Laser-matter interaction

From recycling to defusing explosive devices: Laser technology is a key element in the development of innovative processes. A detailed understanding of laser-matter interaction is a crucial basis for this.

What potential does artificial intelligence have for laser material processing? In the RAPID-KI project, EMI is working with other Fraunhofer institutes to research the possibility of using databased methods for process control during material removal with pulsed lasers. Possible applications include the recycling of electronic components and the paint stripping of large aircraft parts.

How can laser technology support the development of novel materials? Selective laser melting (SLM) is used in additive manufacturing, particularly for the production of geometrically complex metal components. By using special mixtures of metal powders as the starting material in conjunction with the appropriate process parameters, new types of materials with customized physical properties can be developed. In this context, Fraunhofer EMI is in particular conducting research on the production of metal-matrix composite materials that are characterized by high hardness combined with high plastic deformability.

How can composite materials be reused in a way that conserves resources? Composite materials such as carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) have great potential in lightweight construction due to their high stability combined with low weight and are used in the aviation and automotive industries in particular. The recycling of disused components is still an unsolved problem. Fraunhofer EMI is researching laser-based technologies that enable the reuse of carbon fibers.

How can laser technology increase security during defusing processes? The neutralizing of explosive devices always poses a risk for the emergency services involved – be it when old world war munitions are found or in connection with terrorist attacks. The use of laser technology for the controlled disposal of explosives and the delaboration of unexploded ordnance has been researched in special laboratories at Fraunhofer EMI in international projects. The security of the emergency services can be significantly improved by the possibility of using laser radiation over long distances.

What new possibilities do high-power laser sources offer in material processing? Typical laser sources used to date in industrial production for welding and cutting operate with beam powers in the order of 10 kilowatts. Thanks to recent advances in laser technology, lasers in the 100 kilowatt power class are already commercially available today. Fraunhofer EMI is investigating industrial applications for this new generation of laser sources, such as for rapid material removal or surface hardening. The development of new types of high-performance processing optics is also being addressed in this context.

How can new metrological methods be used to improve process control and gain new scientific insights? Fraunhofer EMI is a world leader in the field of high-speed metrology and uses this expertise particularly in laser technology. One current example is the establishment of a measuring station where laser-matter interaction is investigated using high-speed X-ray imaging. A linear accelerator makes it possible for the first time to visualize highly dynamic processes, particularly in thick metal samples. This means that highly dynamic processes that take place inside samples during laser material processing can be visualized with a time resolution that has never been achieved before.