Selective Laser-Induced Etching (SLE)

For transparent materials, particularly in glass micromachining, WOP utilizes Selective Laser-Induced Etching (SLE). This process combines laser modification with chemical wet etching.

Selective Laser Etching (SLE) allows for the creation of complex 3D structures in various materials, providing high aspect ratios, micron-scale precision, and versatility. Additionally, it is cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for expensive masks or molding tools.

This technology is applicable in a range of fields, including microfluidic devices, microwells, fiber arrays, through glass via (TGV) wafers and panels, as well as other high-precision components in the biomedical, optical, and MEMS industries.

Features

  • Various micro shapes – circular, square, irregular
  • Hole diameter from 20 µm
  • High aspect ratio – up to 1:100
  • No micro cracks or chipping – SLE technology allows for avoidance of micro-cracks or chipping
  • Smooth sidewalls – micro-holes have a roughness Ra <1 µm
  • Straight hole cross-section – no taper
  • Thin glass – from 30 µm to 3 mm
  • Wafer size up to 200 mm x 200 mm (8’’)
  • All glass types
  • Hole diameter from 20 µm
  • High aspect ratio up to 1:100
  • Smooth sidewalls Ra<1 µm
  • No micro cracks or chipping
  • No taper
  • Thin glass & sapphire
    from 30 µm to 3 mm

Excellent accuracy and speed suitable for the industry

Selective laser etching (SLE) is a two-step process.

First, we modify glass by using ultra-short pulse laser radiation. Ultra-short pulses can effectively make modifications inside the transparent materials, and only one pulse is enough to go through the substrate. It ensures speed and quality for volume production.

Second, we remove the modified areas using wet chemical etching. Selective (SLE) means that modified areas are affected by etching much faster than unmodified ones, making it possible to achieve the desired result.

We have optimized the process achieving sufficient accuracy with speed suitable for the industry.

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Contact
information

WORKSHOP OF PHOTONICS
Mokslininku st. 6A, Vilnius, LT-08412, Lithuania

Phone: +370 5 215 7551
E-mail: [email protected]

Company details

Altechna R&D, UAB
Company code 301502628
VAT code LT100006155012
Bank – SEB 70440
LT87 7044 0600 0770 8092