Research on the theory and key technology of laser processing and system optimisation for low carbon manufacturing (LASER-BEAMS)

Laser based processing technologies have great potential to bring new innovations to manufacturing while at the same time disrupting traditional energy and carbon intensive processes. Lasers enable selective processing and unique but complex material energy beam interactions. However, there is currently a limited understanding of the energy intensity and carbon emissions associated with the use of lasers in manufacturing. New knowledge, understanding, process models and resource metrics, and industry case studies are urgently needed to optimise laser materials processing technologies for low carbon manufacturing. This project brings together leading groups from Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) and Chongqing University (CQU) in China, and The University of Manchester and Loughborough University in the UK, to co-create the scientific base and technologies for low carbon manufacturing with lasers. The proposal has a focus on laser cleaning and welding reflecting areas that are distinctive in the UK and China and have the greatest potential for bringing new innovations to growing areas of industry as well as greater potential for impact on low carbon manufacturing.