Diffuse interface modeling of laser-induced nano-/micro-cavitation bubbles

Abstract

In the present work, a diffuse interface model has been used to numerically investigate the laser-induced cavitation of nano-/micro-bubbles. The mesoscale approach is able to describe the cavitation process in its entirety, starting from the vapor bubble formation due to the focused laser energy deposition up to its macroscopic motion. In particular, the simulations show a complete and detailed description of the bubble formation and the subsequent breakdown wave emission with a precise estimation of the energy partition between the shock wave radiating in the liquid and the internal energy of the bubble. The scaling of the ratio between the energy stored in the bubble at its maximum radius and the one deposited by the laser is found in agreement with experimental observation on macroscopic bubbles.