Laser-induced plasma shock wave and cavity on metal surface underwater

The laser-induced plasma shock waves and related cavitation bubbles on an a luminum surface underwater have been experimentally studied with a high-sen sitivity optical deflection system. The expansion of the shock wave pulse d uration, the positions where shock waves attenuate to acoustic transients, the maximum bubble radii, and the bubble collapse center shifts have been d etermined experimentally. A high-pressure wall behind the bubble has also b een observed with this deflection system. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.