Elastic characterization of nanoporous gold foams using laser based ultrasonics

A resonance based laser ultrasonics technique is explored for the characterization of low density nanoporous gold foams. Laser generated zero group velocity (ZGV) lamb waves are measured in the foams using a Michelson interferometer. The amplitude spectra obtained from the processed time-domain data are analyzed using a theoretical model from which the foam Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio are obtained. The technique is non-contact and nondestructive, and the ZGV resonance modes are spatially localized, allowing for spatial mapping of the bulk sample properties. The technique may be suitable for process control monitoring and mechanical characterization of low density nanoporous structures.