Laser Induced Shock Waves and Dynamic Damage

A high irradiance short pulsed Nd: glass laser was used to generate shock waves in alminum (Al) and copper (Cu). Dynamic fracture at hypervelocity impact conditions was observed as a result of reflected shock waves as tensile waves from the back surface of the samples. Damage development from incipient spallation to complete sample perforration were obtained in planar shock wave conditions. Maximun elongation at fracture at ultra high strain rate was measured for several metals. Shock wave attenuation and dynamic strength were evaluated for Al and Cu. The experimental results of threshold for spall and spall width at this energy were compared with numerical simulations.