Laser micromachining of transparent materials opens new perspectives for modifying physical properties and functionalizing materials, either on the surface or in depth, with or without material removal. 

For more than 15 years, ALPhANOV has been developing unique expertise in laser processing, combined with advanced beam-shaping techniques for the processing of transparent materials, particularly for applications in optics and microfluiduics. 

 

 

 

Laser processing has revolutionized the machining of transparent materials. Quartz, transparent ceramics, soda-lime glass, and borosilicate glass offer a wide range of possibilities. In addition, surface engineering enables controlled modifications of optical reflection, including the creation of anti-reflective effects.

Each process is characterized by its own unique properties.

Cutting and drilling

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Zero conicity
Up to 5 mm thickness
High aspect ratio
Roughness below the µm scale

 

Cutting without material removal

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No dust
Up to 5 mm thickness
Fast process > 100 mm / s
1 mm per pass
Roughness below 500 nm

 

Change in refractive index within the volume

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Localized and dust-free
1 µm precision in XYZ
Durable bulk processing
Unaltered surface finish

 

ALPhANOV adds value to your laser processing through advanced beam-shaping techniques such as DLIP (Direct Laser Interference Patterning), Bessel beams, and bottom-up approaches. Today, refractive index modification within the bulk of materials has become an industrially mature technology, fully mastered and deployed to serve your applications. These developments rely on a state-of-the-art laser platform, covering visible and ultraviolet wavelenghts, enabling the optimization and long-term differenciation of your laser processing. 

Process sheet

Machining of transparent materials