Effect of filler amount in the welding of plastics induced by Visible Laser irradiation

Laser welding of plastics is based on the local energy release of the laser beam to the polymer joint. The process, known as Through 'IYansmission Visible Laser Welding (TTVLW) technique, involves a ns pulsed laser beam of visible light, transmitted by the transparent polymeric part and absorbed at the surface of the other polymeric part. It promotes photo-thermal, photo-chemical and ion implantation processes locally, in the small regions of the irradiated polymer which enables the parts to be welded rapidly. In this work, the TTVLW is applied in order to induce the welding between different polyethylene films, pure and filled with carbon or iron nano-compounds. The mechanical resistance and the physical features of the welded joints are investigated by physical and static mechanical tests. Results proved the effectiveness of the TTVLW technique since high resistance joints are obtained. The joints are investigated as a function of some laser irradiation parameters and polymeric materials properties.