LASER-ABLATION OF CHARGED POLYMERS

The field of excimer laser-induced ablation of polymeric materials is reviewed and examplified with specific data on polymeric materials bas ed on polyamide 6,6 (PA 6,6), either pure or ad-mixed with mineral add itives. Informations collected on the process (ablation threshold, abl ation rate, surface topography) are analyzed in the framework of the e nergy balance of the atom system during and after pulsed, UV irradiati on. The origin of the ablation process is particularly addressed and a phenomenological model describing all aspects of the process is propo sed which stresses energy confinement in the molecular chains to be at the origin of the explosive emission of matter which is induced in th ese materials upon irradiation.