2D Laser Induced Periodic Surface Structures with Double Cross-polarized Pulses

We present a systematic study on the generation of 2D surface structures on stainless steel, using double, cross-polarized femtosecond pulses with variable interpulse delay. We demonstrate the combined effect of the interpulse delay and key process parameters in order to obtain periodic structures. The sets of double pulses were produced utilizing a modified Michelson interferometer with interpulse delay varying from -100 ps to +2 ns. The study was carried out with an industrial laser having pulse duration of 350 fs, emitting in the near infrared (lambda = 1030 nm), operating at 100 kHz coupled with a Galvo scanner. We evaluate the obtained surface morphology and structure period using SEM characterization and Fourier analysis.