Fabrication of continuous-relief micro-optics: progress in laser writing and replication technology

Abstract

Laser writing technology for the fabrication of continuous-relief micro-optical elements is being developed at a number of institutes worldwide [1,2]. It represents a very powerful and flexible fabrication technique and fits well to replication technology in which the resist surface-relief microstructure can be electroformed and replicated into plastic material. Fig. 1 illustrates the essential production steps involved.