Formation of Elastic Cone-Like Microstructures on the Composite of Elastomer and Carbon Black by Excimer Laser Ablation

Abstract

Laser ablation of composite material consisting of elastomer and carbon black was performed using a KrF excimer laser. Remarkable sensitization of polymer ablation with carbon black was observed and cone-like microstructures were produced on the ablated surface. The development of large cones was due to the aggregation of carbon-rich cones by repeated etching and melting upon further laser irradiation. The cone-like microstructures revealed a visco-elastic property that could be useful in the applications of sealing and packing materials.