Viscoelastic polymer jets induced by blister-actuated laser-induced forward transfer (BA-LIFT)

Abstract

Blister-actuated laser-induced forward transfer (BA-LIFT) is a high-resolution printing technique that has been developed to print sensitive inks [1]. In this technique, a laser beam is focused on a polymer layer that is coated on a transparent substrate. The laser pulse is absorbed by the polymer, and the absorption of the laser pulse leads to the ablation of the polymer layer. The ablated polymer encapsulates a vapor cavity that expands rapidly and forms a blister [2].