It is reported that the development of scanning technology for new beam transmission concept and technology related to high-power ultra-short pulse laser, together with interference pattern optical devices and real-time monitoring system, has promoted the cooperation of two technology giants and created a new system capable of realizing large-scale manufacturing level of surface functionalization.

The collaboration was carried out within the framework of the first European flagship project LAMpAS (about 5.1 million euros for research and development) launched in 2019. Its goal is to develop a new type of laser capable of generating cost-effective large-scale bionic microstructures and nanostructures on various surfaces.

The idea is not new: lasers have proved the feasibility of this method for many years. However, up to now, it is very time-consuming and very slow to generate large-scale surfaces economically and efficiently.

Professor Andr s Lasagni said: "By adding new features to the surface of equipment used in daily life, the results envisaged by LAMpAS will be able to generate a new generation of electrical appliances and food packaging systems. We are very pleased to be able to bring together major industrial enterprises to develop this new laser system for mass production. We believe that this result will provide pioneering ideas for many industries.

Antibacterial and self-cleaning properties, friction reduction, optical safety functions and/or decorative effects of various surfaces are inspired by the nature and biology of micro/nanostructures of lotus leaves and butterfly wings. From this point of view, technologies used to change surfaces or coat surfaces (rather than composite materials) can provide new industrial opportunities (such as long-term stable surfaces and more environmentally friendly processes).