Influence of an erosion plasma on the dynamics of a laser absorption wave in a gas

An experimental investigation was made of the influence of an erosion plasma (formed from the target vapour) on the dynamics of a laser-supported detonation wave in the gas surrounding the target. The results confirmed self-consistent numerical model predictions of slowing down of a wave propagating under conditions of partial absorption of laser radiation. The observed effect was attributed to a reduction in the intensity of the radiation, reflected by the target surface and transmitted for the second time by the plasma, because of the absorption in the dense ionised vapour of the target material.