Direct-write laser-induced self-organization and metallization beyond the focal volume in tellurite glass

We report on a self-organized process initiated on a potassium-tungsten-tellurite glass surface under repetitive femtosecond laser irradiation in a regime where cumulative effects lead to a localized melting. Specifically, we show that self-organized periodic patterns consisting of parallel nanoplanes perpendicular to the laser polarization are forming and extending beyond the zone under direct laser exposure. Examination of the modified regions revealed a phase change from a glassy tellurium-oxide to a crystalline tellurium. In addition, we observe that this self-organization process, associated with elemental redistribution and deoxygenation, is triggered by the optical-field strength. We suggest that early self-organized nanostructures formed by a local-field enhancement is subsequently reinforced by a metallization event in an open-air atmosphere.

Automated summary

A self-organized process on a potassium-tungsten-tellurite glass surface under repetitive femtosecond laser irradiation was observed, where cumulative effects led to localized melting. Periodic patterns of parallel nanoplanes perpendicular to the laser polarization were forming and extending, involving phase change, elemental redistribution, and deoxygenation. This process was triggered by optical-field strength and reinforced by metallization in an open-air atmosphere.