Glass welding technology using ultra short laser pulses

Glass welding by ultra short laser pulses is a highly promising method to fusion weld glass pieces since it does not need an absorber or pre- and post-heating processes when compared to other laser fusion welding processes. This method utilizes strongly focused ultra short pulses that generate localized plasma which heats and melts the adjacent material. If the plasma region is sufficiently localized the stresses induced by plasma and heat can be tolerated so that defect-free joining of the brittle glass material can be accomplished. This paper gives an overview on the process and shows the advantages and limitations of this joining technology. A method that allows to determine the bonding energy of the welding seams is presented along with measurement results.