Advanced laser patterning for security marking of high value metal components

The polarization state of an ultrafast laser has been dynamically controlled using two Spatial Light Modulators and additional waveplates. Consequently, a number of states of polarization, linear horizontal and vertical, radial and azimuthal were dynamically switched while synchronized with a motion control system. This technique enables a remarkable level of real-time control of the properties of light waves and applied to real-time surface patterning, shows that highly controlled nanostructuring is possible. This unique surface structuring is used here to demonstrate a novel direct security marking technique for high value metal components. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.