Laser beam target interaction. Volume 1: A 2.8 microns wavelength

This report is the first of two volumes on the subject of laser beam target interaction. Laser beam-target interactions for solid surfaces have been investigated at 2.8 microns wavelength with a 150 J photoinitiated pulsed HF chemical laser. Laser-supported detonation wave propagation was studied at beam intensities up to 160 MW/sq cm. Information about target plasmas was obtained by means of spectroscopic and interferometric diagnostics. Ignition thresholds for laser-supported absorption waves were measured both by observation of plasma luminosity and by measuring the laser power transmitted through a small hole in the target. Measurements were made of thermal and impulse coupling occurring under plasma ignition conditions.