Laser Shock Laboratory

The Laser-Shock Laboratory uses a high energy, pulsed Nd:YAG laser to generate ~20 ns duration pressure pulses, and relatively rapid repetition rates (up to 10 shots/day).  The incident laser pulse launches 1 to 3 mm diameter thin foils to well above 1.0 km/s with up to 40% optical to mechanical energy conversion.  Multiple diagnostics are used to monitor the quality and efficiency of the laser drive.  This table top capability is convenient for small samples, energetic materials, sample recovery, and for rapid screening.

The Laser Shock Laboratory is an excellent complement to the gas guns because pulse durations are significantly shorter than those typically attainable with gas guns.