Theoretical investigation of ignition with lasers

A fundamental theoretical investigation of laser ignition is reported. Ignition is happened in an explosion bomb which equipped with visualization windows and all aspects of the phenomenon such as plasmas, shock waves, ignition kernels, and propagating flames are observed by high-speed schlieren photography. The study covers different phases of laser ignition with theoretical interpretations in chronological order, consisting of electrical breakdown and energy transfer from laser to plasma, shock-wave generation and propagation, gasdynamic effects and generation of the third lobe, chemical induction and ignition and turbulent flame initiation. OCIS codes: 140.0140, 020.0020. doi: 10.3788/COL201210Sl.S21414. Laser ignition has become an active research topic in recent years. Compared with conventional spark ignition, laser ignition displays a number of advantages. It is accomplished without electrodes. The rate of energy, which transfered from the beam, can be extremely high and localized, laser wavelengths can be tuned to particular molecular energy levels, and the location for breakdown can be selected. Furthermore, the subsequent speed of flame propagation can be enhanced after laser ignition. Laser ignition of reactive mixtures can be divided into