The fabrication of porous coatings using laser spark atomisation

The laser spark atomiser (LSA) technique, LINA-SPARK™ is used to prepare porous coatings. It is shown that the crystalline phase of the target material is conserved after atomisation and film formation. Silicon forms oxide-free films under inert atmosphere (Ar), whereas it forms silicon oxide when adding 20% oxygen to Ar, and silicon nitride in pure nitrogen atmosphere. Films made out of calcium phosphate are deposited on titanium substrates. It is expected that their porosity will improve the prosthesis-bone reconstruction after chirurgical operation. Future application in the field of microsensors is also discussed. Finally, it is shown that running the LSA under low rate of particle formation, it is possible to deposit isolated Si particles onto Si substrate thus enabling microstructuration of the surface.