High-rate laser surface texturing of 3D injection molds to fabricate functionalized easy-flow polymeric containers - LaMoFlo

Project summary

The easy emptying of waste containers through non-stick, self-emptying containers would be a welcome innovation with a large environmental gain. Our research team from McGill University, École de Tech-nologie Supérieure and Mittweida University of Applied Sciences has teamed up with a bulk and food-packaging manufacturer, IPL Inc., and a manufacturer of polymer injection molds, Moulexpert Inc., to develop an industrially viable process to laser texture molds for the fabrication of functional polymer sur-faces. The objective is to revolutionize the packaging sector by producing multi-scale textures on oblique sur-faces needed for damage-free demolding of 3D polymer parts. Thereby, high-power lasers with ultrafast scan systems will be used for energy-efficient and flexible 3D high-rate machining. This will ensure easy recycling of the monolithic containers, less food wasted, and easier compost handling that will reduce landfill waste and protect the environment lead to business growth.