Modeling of momentum transfer to a surface by laser-supported absorption waves

A simplified parametric model of the flowfield produced by impingement of a high-energy laser pulse onto a nonablative surface in a static environment is described. An attempt has been made to account for the twodimensional effects arising out of the rarefaction structure within the laser-heated gases. An optimization model is developed to indicate the laser spot size, pulse width, and intensity dependencies of the efficiency of delivery of both impulse and mechanical energy to the target surface.