Selective laser etching of displays: Closing the gap between optical simulations and fabrication

Abstract: Simulations and measurements on selective laser etching of display glasses are reported. By means of a holographic 3D beam splitter, ultrashort laser pulses are focused inside the volume of a glass sample creating type III modifications along a specific trajectory like pearls on a string. Superimposed by a feed of the glass sample a full 3D area of modifications is achieved building the cornerstone for subsequent etch processes. Based on KOH the modifications are selectively etched at a much higher rate compared to unmodified regions resulting in a separation of the glass along the trajectory of modifications. For gaining further insight into the etch process, we perform simulations on this wet chemical process and compare it to our experimental results.