Fraunhofer IKTS is investigating innovative laser-based approaches to the rapid, selective sintering of printed metallic and ceramic layers on a range of substrates. To achieve this, we use a micro-optically optimized, line-shaped laser beam that is swept over the printed structures. The substrates are transparent to the laser radiation in the near-infrared spectral range. Therefore, only the radiation-absorbing printed layers are heated selectively. The rapid processing (dwell time in the millisecond range) enables removal of the organic phase and sintering of the printed layers in air, all without substantial thermal damage to the substrates.

This approach offers a solution for realizing material combinations that are challenging to produce or even prohibited by standard furnace-based sintering. Typical example is achieving high-performance electrically conductive structures on thermally sensitive flexible substrates (polymer foils, paper, thin glass). With this technology, Fraunhofer IKTS supports industrial partners as well as research institutions in the development of printed electronics products, sensor technology, and energy storage applications.