Galatea Lab
One of the laser platform at Galatea. Part of the laser used to modify the material is frequency doubled (green light) and further utilized to probe dynamically the material being exposed. Photo credit: Catherine Leutenegger.
Our laboratory explores novel paradigms to tailor material properties locally using lasers. The objective is to ‘write’ functions in materials, turning them into sophisticated components, and ultimately, systems on their own.
Our research articulates itself around three main clusters: understanding of the laser-matter interaction phenomena, investigating of new manufacturing processes based on 3D direct-write laser methods and finally, finding novel concepts of multi-scale systems based on single monolith.
The Galatea Lab is thankful for the sponsoring of Richemont International SA.
Transforming materials locally with lasers
We focus mainly on the use of ultrafast lasers to locally tailor the physical properties of materials. Thanks to the high-peak power delivered by these lasers, one can trigger non-linear absorption processes, enabling the ability of modifying transparent materials in three dimensions.
Investigating complex systems made out of monolith
Thanks to the taxonomy of possible laser-induced bulk material modification, multiple functions, such as, optical, mechanical or fluid-handling capabilities can be embedded in single monoliths, defining new system design paradigms.
3D manufacturing processes
The ability to modify materials properties locally gives us the possibility to investigate new processes, such as processes combining laser exposure with chemical etching steps, thermal laser reflow on preformed shape, casting or molding with preformed cavities.
We acknowledge past and present supports from:
