shaping-manufacturing-processes > LIGA

LIGA is a German acronym for Lithographie, Galvanoformung and Abformung. It translates to Lithography, Electroplating and Moulding. LIGA uses these 3 processes to create detailed microstructures.

The LIGA process involves the following steps; a layer of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is deposited onto an electrically conductive substrate. The PMMA is exposed to X-Rays and is subsequently developed. The remaining undeveloped PMMA is stripped, resulting in a freestanding metal structure, plastic injection moulding then takes place.