A method of manufacturing layer-like structures in which a cavity exhibiting or porous layer is produced on or from a substrate, wherein an uppermost layer of the cavity exhibiting or porous layer, is melted, at least in places, and is subsequently caused to solidify for the production of a single crystal non-porous layer and the solidified layer is subsequently separated from the substrate using the cavity exhibiting or porous layer, as a position of intended separation, or at a boundary surface of the cavity exhibiting or porous layer.