From Hologram to Object: Surface Level Reconstruction through Digital Holographic Interferometry and 3D Printing of Phase Diagrams

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology combining Digital Holographic Interferometry (DHI) with 3D printing for submillimetric surface characterization. It demonstrates how DHI enables detailed, non-invasive surface measurements, generating 3D printable models from phase maps of worn samples. These models provide a tangible visual interpretation of topographic variations, aiding surface analysis. The paper describes the use of interferometry with a double refractive index to measure level differences from 1 µm to 300 µm and a lensless Fourier reconstruction algorithm to generate phase diagrams, later converted into STL files for 3D printing. Combining DHI and 3D printing simplifies complex surface studies and offers a practical alternative to traditional techniques like confocal or electron microscopy. The results highlight its potential for material and surface analysis.