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Scientists from McGill University have developed a gentler, more precise laser cutting technique using low-power visible light. The new process called ‘cold photo-carving’ uses a fraction of the energy required in traditional laser cutting techniques. 

“We engineered crystal building blocks that can be cut by low-power light with amazing precision. Unlike traditional heat cutting methods, sculpting down to a resolution of nanometres is possible with our approach because light can be focused more precisely than heat can,” says Professor Tomislav Frišcic of the Department of Chemistry.

According to the researchers, the new technique could also be used to engrave complex patterns into surfaces. “Imagine taking the famous geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert in Peru and engraving that pattern at a million times the reduced size,” says Professor Frišcic. 

The researchers hope that the new approach could one day be developed to create new materials like metals or ceramics that are easily shaped or cut using low-power light and are now looking at potential applications in solar cell materials.

Click here to read the article titled, 'Cold photo-carving of halogen-bonded co-crystals of a dye and a volatile co-former using visible light.'