Laser transmission welding of polymers - A review on process fundamentals, material attributes, weldability, and welding techniques

Laser technology often offers solutions where existing technologies have struggled or require improvements. Over the last two decades, laser transmission welding (LTW) has become a viable fabrication method for industries that engaged in polymer welding. This paper presents a comprehensive review on several aspects of LTW process. In specific, this review focuses on four major aspects of the LTW: (a) process fundamentals, including operating principles and process requirements; (b) compositions and pre-welding conditions of polymers and their effects; (c) laser weldability of polymers, considering compatibility and non-compatibility issues; and (d) welding techniques and application strategies, including technological variants and the transformation of application strategies from absorber-based to absorber-free laser welding of polymers. The conclusion of the review and the prospects for further research work are eventually addressed.