Multifunctional laser‐induced nanostructuring of glass

Abstract A comprehensive report is provided here on a single‐step approach to the selective surface processing and functionalization of glass components with laser pulses. In particular, it is shown that biomimetic, self‐organized, deep‐subwave‐length, quasi‐periodic nanopillar structures can be realized using ultrashort laser light. These structures have an enormous effect on the properties of the glass, including optical and wetting. Remarkable antireflection and enhanced transmission, tunable glare as well as a strong antifogging effect of the laser processed glass are shown. Several use cases are discussed for selective glass surface functionalization, including optical fiber tips and curved optical lenses.