Direct Laser Writing of Microtunnels and Reservoirs on Nanocomposite Materials

Using the efficient photon–thermal energy conversion property of gold nanoparticles, a direct laser writing method has been developed for the fabrication of microstructures including microtunnels (see figure), holes, and reservoirs on nanoparticle/polymer composite thin films. The microstructures are formed by a subsurface layer explosion that occurs in the nanocomposite film as a result of the thermal decomposition of the polymer.