Laser-induced reshaping of particles aiming at energy-saving applications

Abstract

Submicrometer scaled spheres are realized by a laser-induced reshaping process. An irregular shaped particle absorbs the laser-energy and turns into a spherical liquid droplet dispersed in deionized water. Subsequently, the spherical liquid droplet is “frozen” by the fast cooling of the surrounding deionized water, giving rise to the formation of submicrometer scale spheres. This is a versatile, simple, low-cost, fast and high-throughput technique to prepare submicrometer scale spheres with multiple structural controlling capabilities. These submicrometer scale spheres show excellent friction coefficient-reduction (>50%) properties when they are used as lubricant oil additives, opening the door to the possibility of saving energy by reducing friction caused energy loss.