Femtosecond Micromachining of Ceramic Fibers for Electric Contact Soldering

In this report, the researchers demonstrate that using femtosecond laser pulses it is possible to create micro-notches and micro-wells in conductive titanium dioxide (Magneli phase) ceramic. Fabricated micro-cavities were later used as support points for wire soldering in order to integrate ceramic fiber into electronic measuring circuit as a mechanical wear sensor. They show that with optimal cutting parameters laser-processed areas retain good conduction properties and have no impact on electric contact quality. Using galvanometric scanners together with high repetition rate femtosecond laser pulses it is possible to form such microcavities in times suitable for industrial needs.