New femtosecond laser technologies

摘要

Ultrashort duration laser sources are considered as a promising tool for new micromachining applications: precise microdrilling and microcutting on various materials. As an illustration of the" non thermal "micromachining, we also paid attention to precious wood. Cutting is achieved without burning, and the cut surface remains undamaged. Some promising applications are described and discussed. 1W-1kHz sources are currently used for micromachining but some results can be obtained with lower energy sources and higher repetition rates. An average power level of 10 W appears to be the right goal for this type of laser to really become industrial.