Interaction between a bubble and a metal target for underwater laser propulsion

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Engineering

Background:

• Underwater laser propulsion utilizes laser-induced bubbles for thrust generation.
• Understanding bubble-target interaction is crucial for optimizing propulsion efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interaction mechanism between laser-induced bubbles and metal targets.
• To propose a theory explaining kinetic energy transfer and coupling efficiency.
• To elucidate the role of incident laser energy in underwater laser propulsion.

Main Methods:

• Employing optical beam deflection techniques.
• Utilizing high-speed photographic methods.
• Analyzing bubble dynamics and target response.

Main Results:

• Observed step increases in kinetic energy transferred to the target.
• Demonstrated a correlation between incident laser energy and kinetic energy transfer.
• Validated a preliminary theory on energy transfer mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• The proposed theory accurately explains the observed phenomena.
• Increased incident laser energy leads to enhanced coupling efficiency.
• This research provides fundamental insights into underwater laser propulsion.