Defect reconstruction by non-destructive testing with laser induced ultrasonic detection

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Non-Destructive Testing
• Acoustics

Background:

• Traditional non-destructive testing (NDT) methods like full ultrasonic or optical approaches have limitations.
• Laser-generated ultrasound (LGU) offers remote sensing capabilities, while conventional transducers provide precise detection.
• A hybrid approach can potentially overcome the drawbacks of individual methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a hybrid laser-ultrasound NDT method for 2D defect localization and reconstruction.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of this hybrid approach in metallic components.
• To combine the benefits of photonic and ultrasonic techniques for improved NDT.

Main Methods:

• Generating ultrasound via laser pulse impact.
• Employing conventional transducers for ultrasound detection.
• Implementing a synthetic aperture focusing technique (SAFT) for signal processing.
• Applying the method to metallic elements for defect reconstruction.

Main Results:

• Successful 2D defect localization and reconstruction in metallic elements.
• Demonstration of combined advantages from both laser-generated ultrasound and conventional transducers.
• Reduction in the limitations associated with purely optical or ultrasonic NDT methods.
• High-resolution 2D visualization of defects achieved through SAFT.

Conclusions:

• The hybrid laser-ultrasound NDT method is effective for 2D defect visualization.
• This approach offers a synergistic solution, mitigating drawbacks of individual NDT techniques.
• The developed method shows promise for advanced, remotely controlled non-destructive testing applications.