Accurate propagation velocity measurement of laser supported detonation waves

One dimensional experimental data of a Laser Supported Detonation (LSD) wave is necessary for validation of the LSD propagation model. In this study, a LSD was driven in a pulsed CO2 laser beam whose equivalent diameter was 7.2 mm, which was sufficient to neglect lateral enthalpy dissipation in comparison with laser energy input. In order to evaluate this relation, an identical LSD wave propagation velocity was obtained with and without lateral flow confinement by a solid wall. In addition, accurate prediction of the LSD propagation velocities were obtained. These were same in a beam of 5.1 mm diameter while it was about twice as high as in a beam of 1.2 mm diameter. In the high laser intensity region, the LSD propagation velocity was higher than that of Chapman-Jouguet condition.