LASER-GENERATED RAYLEIGH-WAVES IN GRAPHITE-EPOXY COMPOSITES

This study explores the potential for application of laser-induced sur face or Rayleigh waves on graphite/epoxy composites. Rayleigh waves we re generated by a Q-switched ruby laser in the ablation regime and det ected by a pinducer which permitted accurate phase-velocity measuremen ts. The Rayleigh wave velocity was measured in various directions rela tive to the fiber direction. Experimental results agreed closely with numerical predictions in the thick plate, but showed some increase of phase velocity in the thin plate. Laser-generated Rayleigh waves, part icularly along the fiber direction, showed good potential for applicat ions in NDT.