Inspection of cracks using laser-induced ultrasound with shadow method: Modeling and validation

A numerical model based on the finite element method (FEM) is developed for crack inspection using laser-induced ultrasonic waves with the shadow method. Before the simulation, the numerical code is verified by comparing the directivity patterns of ultrasonic waves with the experiment. The use of thermo-elastically generated ultrasonic waves for crack detection and evaluation with the shadow method is investigated by simulation. The simulation is validated by comparing with the experiment.

► A numerical model is developed for crack inspection with laser ultrasonic.
► The possibility of the “inner” crack inspection with thermo-elastic waves is investigated.
► The crack at the rear side of the specimen was detected and evaluated by shadow method.