Dynamic Probing of High Strain-Rate Laser-Driven Shock Waves in Materials
Abstract
Work under this grant was focused on the probing of fast dynamics induced by laser driven shock waves. These studies are motivated by the fact that a complete understanding of shock waves in materials requires comprehensive microscopic understanding of the compression wave. Under our ARO grant we undertook a series of experiments to develop ways of studying atomic scale motions in materials as a material undergoes very high strain rate shock compression, To study these dynamics we used short pulse lasers in high time resolution pump-probe experiments. Our initial work concentrated on examining the shock induced melt transition in various materials including tin and silicon. First we utilized a series of linear optical diagnostics to characterize the shock strengths achievable with our short pulse laser. In addition to these linear optical probes, we then developed a non-linear optical probe involving the generation of third-harmonic photons at the surface of our target. Using this technique, we have observed the first real-time shock induced phase changes in silicon.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 20, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA482302
Entities
People
- Todd Ditmire
Organizations
- University of Texas at Austin