In a new Cluster publication, Doctoral Researchers Steven Kraus and Kristian Kraft, Principal Investigators Yolita M. Eggeler and Martin Wegener, and Postdoctoral Researcher Paul Somers present a novel in situ diagnostic approach for photothermal laser nanoprinting of zinc oxide (ZnO). The researchers combined a printing laser with a co-focused probe laser to directly monitor local temperature changes and material growth dynamics during the printing process with exceptionally high spatial and temporal resolution. This method provides unparalleled insight into essential process parameters, including heating dynamics, temperature distribution, and material deposition. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of photothermal laser printing and support the development of more precise and efficient additive manufacturing technologies. The results may also advance the fabrication of future microelectronic devices and complex, multi-material structures.
© Steven Kraus et al., Laser & Photonics Reviews (2026), CC BY 4.0