Ultrashort pulse laser makes QR codes in plastic scannable

hailtec has a Breakthrough in microstructuring achieved. We managed to get one in Plastic sprayed QR code that is scannable. The process for processing was made possible with a Ultrashort pulse laser with femto laser beams. As a client, Keppler Feinmechanik shows the application using the example of a coin chip.

The developers see a wide range of applications for such QR codes on plastic. “We need a mold insert with which we can inject plastic QR codes that can be read with a smartphone or other device,” was the request from Jochen Kepler from Keppler Feinmechanik. A QR code worked so far only in black and white contrast. So that sounded impossible at first.

Reflection as an alternative to black and white contrast

A well-known injection molding machine manufacturer also assured him that the project was “not feasible”. Nevertheless, Jochen Keppler was convinced that the idea could be implemented on the basis of reflection on the surface and turned to the laser technology expert Hailtec, whom he judged to be the right partner.  

Alexander Renz, Managing Director of Hailtec and his team accepted the challenge of this material processing. They also brought Sylvia Goldbach from Taktilesdesign on board. In developing more functional Surface structures of components, the experts for texture development in tactile design and for ultra-short pulse lasers at Hailtec have been working together for years.

Giving up is not an option to make the impossible possible

“During the project I sometimes felt like we were trying to make the impossible possible. But giving up was out of the question. So we got deeper and deeper into the topic, so to speak. Today we are incredibly proud to have made it, ”says Alexander Renz.

Foam laser technology from Arpro to a depth of 1,5 mm

With the help of the ultrashort pulse laser, also USP laser, the geometrically optimized microstructure a QR code molded in plastic. The Microstructuring Achieves a deep black effect with targeted light refraction and can therefore be scanned by smartphones. This even works with a photo of the coin chip.

Plastic with tungsten for coin chips

For a first application example, Keppler produced a Coin chips for shopping trolleys. A plastic from Polyone was used polyamide base that with 80% tungsten is filled. Thanks to its high density of 11 g / cm³, it has a very high value.

Kanban box models with RFID automatically reorder C-parts

The developers actually wanted to present the development of the first QR code injection-molded in plastic at Arburg's Technology Days, but unfortunately the corona pandemic also thwarted this project.

Applications possible in many industries

The applications for plastic QR codes are promising and versatile. So they could Autoreifen and other consumer goods store information. Also for industrial use, for example at Tools- And mold makers, spray technologists, the potential of this new technology is huge.

3D microstructures finer than with nanolasers

The ultrashort pulse laser achieves with its femtosecond laser 3D microstructures with a much finer resolution than the conventional one Nanolaser technology able. The material sublimates directly without the action of heat or slag formation. The rework is so minimal. With the ultra-short pulse laser, Heiltec gives components functional surfaces such as antibacterial, tribological, hydrophobic or hydrophilic structures. The company offers this high technology on demand.