October 11, 2006
Laser beam welded
microfluidic structure
Laser perforated implant
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Transmission laser beam welding of thermoplastic polymers offers innovative solutions to overcome limitations of conventional joining technologies. One challenge is to ensure over suitable pigmentation that the laser radiation is transmitted by the top layer and sufficiently absorbed in the bottom layer. With new laser sources it is feasible to adapted the beam characteristics to the polymer absorption properties without additional pigments. With a suitable welding strategy the advantages of the transmission welding of polymers can be retained without affecting the surface of the joining parts. This method allows although to weld transparent polymers without additional IR absorber.
Micro-bores for improved fixation of implants and precise dosing
Bores with minute dimensions down to one micrometer can be drilled in any material by laser radiation. Due to the virtually force-free machining smooth, flexible materials such as polymers, usually applied for single-use-products and covers of implants, as well as hard materials such as metals and ceramics can be drilled precisely. Typical applications are perforation of implant covers for tissue in-growth, venting or calibration orifices in catheters, surgical instruments and dosage devices.
Contacts
Dipl. Phys. Axel Bauer
Steinbachstraße 15
52074 Aachen
Phone +49 (0) 2 41/89 06-194
Fax +49 (0) 2 41/89 06-121
Email: axel.bauer@ilt.fraunhofer.de
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