In the frame of the Simulation Program, CEA/DAM conducts experiments on high powerful lasers involving complex targets. Intensive research is therefore conducted to study and manufacture a large panel of targets - with ambitious scientific and technological challenges ahead. In particular, CEA wants to extend its laser microwelding capabilities–at a sub-mm scale. The challenge is to weld both high-reflective and thin materials (aluminum, copper, gold …) with an accurate mastering of heat deposition and penetration depth. The goal is to implement, optimize and qualify a process based on the latest source generation (UV or green laser source), and to get an innovative set of experimental data. A phenomenological model might also be proposed.

The latest generation of laser source emitting in visible wavelengths (green, blue) will be exploited. He/she will participate in the design and qualification testing of the laser station associated with this new source. Once validated, he/she will carry out the study of the operational and metallurgical weldability of the sub-elements. He/she will compare his/her results with the use of a pulse infrared laser. He/she will appraise the joints obtained using different approaches and optimize the design of the welded joints. Its experimental study will go as far as carrying out functional tests on prototypes. External collaborations will be set up to compare the results obtained with simulations in order to deduce a phenomenological model.