Ultrafast laser ablation and modification of thin metal film for quasi-1D array formation

• Published in: Optics and laser technology 2025-05, Vol.183, Article 112330
• Main Authors: Vilkevičius, Kernius, Čepaitis, Kipras, Selskis, Algirdas, Stankevičius, Evaldas
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Direct laser writing; Gold nanostructuring; Laser ablation; Laser modification; Plasmonic grating
• ISSN: 0030-3992
• DOI: 10.1016/j.optlastec.2024.112330

One-dimensional and two-dimensional periodic gratings on thin gold film surfaces are fabricated with direct laser writing, employing both ablation and layer modification mechanisms. The variation in the pulse energy and pulse overlapping results in the formation of arrays with distinct plasmonic properties. Ablation is employed for the formation of 1D lattices, whereas metal surface modification is used for the fabrication of quasi-1D and 2D gratings. Laser-scanning fabrication allows for the individual control of grating and in-line periods, leading to the production of a quasi-1D array with 2D geometry and 1D plasmonic properties. The formation of such an array allows for the acquisition of 2D-grating quality hybrid lattice plasmonic resonances with the spectral characteristics of a 1D-grating while eradicating the occurrence of additional resonances that are typical of 2D arrays. The resulting quasi-1D arrays thus combine the advantages of both 1D and 2D designs, offering a unique platform for tuning plasmonic resonances for various optical applications.