Abstract: A method of producing a functional layer on a substrate, such as metal would include the steps of applying an electrostatic powder as a primer coat to the substrate, after which the primer is cured by a laser. A conductive layer is then applied and cured to form a functional layer, such as conductive tracings over all or a portion of the substrate.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying and fusing a powder coating to substrates of various composition uses two lasers to accurately heat the coating to the optimum temperature. A second laser has less power and heats a smaller area than the first laser. Temperature control is enhanced by the ability to superheterodyne two lasers at separate frequencies. This allows for better absorption of certain materials being fused by the laser. Another common problem associated with laser processing occurs as the polymer heats up. During the heating process the spectral lines are Doppler broadened and slightly shifted. This can affect the absorption of a laser of a fixed wavelength. With the present invention, the optimum laser frequency can be turned to a more optimum frequency for absorption still with sufficient power for fast efficient thermal processing.

Abstract: This invention embodies the process and apparatus for applying a fluorocarbon coating or film to a metal or other material surface of a substrate, and particularly for applying such coating to the hull of a ship, or to other objects to be submerged in fresh or saltwater, to protect their surfaces from corrosion, and/or from fouling by marine organisms, and to improve the aqueous slip of a vessel during the period the object will be exposed to either aqueous, atmospheric, or other environments; and to protect virtually any substrate surface from virtually any environmental or man-made hazard. This process utilizes a laser that generates an infrared laser beam, such as, but not limited to a carbon derived gas type laser, to assist in the preparation for and attachment of a film or coating to a prepared substrate surface.