Calcination-Enhanced Laser-Induced Damage Threshold of 3D Micro-Optics Made with Laser Multi-Photon Lithography

Laser Direct Writing (LDW), also known as 3D multi-photon laser lithography of resins, is a promising technique for fabricating complex free-form elements, including micro-optical functional components. Regular organic or hybrid (organic–inorganic) resins are often used, with the latter exhibiting better optical characteristics, well having option to be heat-treated into inorganic glass-like structures particularly useful resilient micro-optics. This work continuation our SZ2080™ calcination development micro-optics, specifically studying Laser-Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT). Such sol–gel-derived glass micro-structures, those that undergo heat treatment, have not been well-characterized in this respect. In pilot study, we investigated LIDT using Series-on-One (S-on-1) protocol micro-lenses produced via LDW and subsequently calcinated. Our results demonstrate can significantly increased, even multiple times, by approach, thus enhancing resilience usefulness these represents first investigation terms impact on LDW-produced, micro-structures provides important insights robust devices.