Laser beam cutting of concrete

Based on the experience with siliceous materials obtained at FhG IWS while doing technological research on several techniques, as internal engraving of glass or cleaning and milling of natural stone, a laser beam technique for cutting and drilling of concrete and other siliceous materials has been developed, and a related patent has been granted. The main feature of this technique is a pressurized cutting head for driving the highly viscous glassy melt out of the gap. The cutting has been done with Nd:YAG- and diode lasers whose performance and size make them suitable for field work.