Sintering of thin titanium dioxide nanoparticle films via photothermal processing with ultraviolet continuous-wave lasers

► Photothermal sintering of TiO2 nanoparticle films using a cw-laser is demonstrated. ► 8-10 nm anatase TiO2 nanoparticles are synthesized via flame spray synthesis. ► Processing at λ = 355 nm ensures selective laser sintering of the nanoparticle films. ► Microfocused irradiation induces local particle/grain growth up to 200 nm and more. ► Particle/grain size increases with increasing power density and local irradiation time.