Laser-Induced Forward Transfer: An Approach to Single-Step Microfabrication

The laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) refers to a new technique that utilizes pulsed lasers to remove thin-film material from a transparent support and deposit it onto a suitable substrate. LIFT is a method for direct serial writing of well-defined lines and isolated dots, with submicron resolution. It is noted that the LIFT process exhibits several advantages over conventional methods, primarily simplicity and novelty. The effectiveness of LIFT relies on defining the critical parameters of the laser-solid interaction. Its optimization depends on the specific optical, thermophysical, and mechanical properties of the materials involved. Various metals and oxides are used in LIFT applications, together with a variety of laser sources, from the near infrared to the ultraviolet. This chapter reviews research efforts made in the field of LIFT by emphasizing on cases of potential technological interest. Selected examples of current developments and potential of the technique together with its advantages and inherent impediments are also presented in the chapter.

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