Abstract

Focusing a high power laser beam in a transparent liquid is a convenient technique to generate and to study the dynamics of an isolated vapor bubble. Beyond a certain threshold of power density the dielectric breakdown of the medium occurs. This phenomenon is characterized by the formation of a luminous plasma and the emission of a strong spherical shock wave. The plasma is quickly replaced by a vapor bubble, which expands to a maximum volume and then collapses. At the end of the collapse phase, the pressure inside the bubble rapidly increases and a second shock wave is generated. Then, the cavity can follow several oscillations.

© 1998 IEEE