Georgia Tech Laser Micro-Machining Lab (LMML)

The Georgia Tech Laser Micro-Machining Lab is a specialized research facility within the Georgia Institute of Technology that focuses on advanced laser-based manufacturing and microfabrication techniques. This lab is dedicated to developing and refining laser processes that can precisely machine, pattern, and modify materials at micro and nano scales.

Key Areas of Focus:

1. Laser Micro-Machining:
   • The lab works on the precision machining of materials using lasers, enabling the creation of intricate features at the micro-scale. This is essential for applications in electronics, microelectronics, MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems), and other advanced manufacturing sectors.
2. Material Processing:
   • Researchers in the lab study how different materials respond to laser processing. This includes understanding the interaction between laser beams and various materials, such as metals, semiconductors, ceramics, and polymers.
3. Laser Ablation:
   • The lab explores laser ablation techniques, where material is removed from a surface layer by layer using high-energy laser pulses. This is used to create precise patterns and structures on the material surfaces.
4. Microfabrication:
   • The lab is involved in developing new microfabrication techniques that leverage laser technology to produce micro-scale components and devices. This is important for industries like biomedical devices, optics, and photonics.
5. Laser-Matter Interaction:
   • A significant part of the lab’s research is devoted to understanding the fundamental physics of how laser energy interacts with matter. This knowledge is used to optimize laser processes for better precision, efficiency, and control.

Applications:

• The techniques developed in the Laser Micro-Machining Lab are applied in various high-tech industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, medical devices, and energy. The lab’s work supports innovations in areas such as micro-sensors, microfluidic devices, and advanced photonic structures.

Collaboration:

• The lab collaborates with industry partners, government agencies, and other academic institutions to advance the state of laser micro-machining technology and to apply its findings to real-world manufacturing challenges.

Educational Role:

• In addition to its research activities, the Georgia Tech Laser Micro-Machining Lab serves as an educational resource, training students and researchers in advanced laser processing techniques and contributing to the development of future experts in the field.