Numerical investigation of the scaling effect on the velocity of radiation wave propagation during absorption of high-power laser radiation in air

Abstract

Characteristics of gasdynamic structures of plasma plumes formed in quiescent air of reduced density by high-power unfocused laser radiation absorbed in the supersonic radiation wave (SRW) regime have been numerically studied using a model of inviscid, equilibrium emitting air. Dependences of the SRW velocity on the laser radiation intensity at reduced air density have been determined. It is shown that the laser radiation beam diameter is a parameter that significantly influences the velocity of SRW propagation