Laser-target interaction near the plasma-formation threshold

Surface pressures were measured on targets that were directly behind a laser-supported absorption wave. These waves occur at laser fluxes near the threshold flux for plasma formation and are associated with enhanced thermal and mechanical coupling to the target. The surface pressures within the laser spot were measured with carbon piezoresistive gauges while blast wave pressures away from the laser spot were measured with a quartz piezoelectric gauge. Comparison of the experimental data with current theories shows that peak pressures in the laser spot are significantly lower than predicted by the theories