Study of underwater laser propulsion using different target materials.

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Engineering

Background:

• Underwater laser propulsion is an emerging technology with potential applications in various fields.
• Understanding the influence of target materials is crucial for optimizing underwater laser propulsion performance.
• Existing laser propulsion theories were primarily developed for atmospheric conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of different target materials (aluminum, titanium, copper) on underwater laser propulsion.
• To adapt and validate the enhanced coupling theory for underwater laser propulsion scenarios.
• To develop an analytical formula for target momentum (IT) in underwater laser propulsion.

Main Methods:

• Deduction of an analytical formula for target momentum (IT) based on the enhanced coupling theory.
• Experimental verification using high-speed photography.
• Validation through numerical simulations.

Main Results:

• The enhanced coupling theory, initially developed for atmospheric laser propulsion with transparent overlay metal targets, is applicable to underwater conditions.
• The derived analytical formula for target momentum (IT) accurately models the behavior of aluminum, titanium, and copper targets.
• Experimental and simulation results confirm the validity of the adapted theoretical model.

Conclusions:

• The enhanced coupling theory provides a robust framework for analyzing underwater laser propulsion with metal targets.
• The study demonstrates the feasibility of adapting atmospheric laser propulsion theories to underwater environments.
• This research contributes to the fundamental understanding and optimization of underwater laser propulsion systems.