Investigation of laser generated perturbations for boundary layer stability experiments

Abstract

This paper describes boundary layer stability experiments with controlled perturbations at hypersonic flow around a flat plate. Laser pulses are used to generate pressure and temperature disturbances. By using multiple laser pulses a wave packet with adjustable amplitude and frequency can be created. The development of such artificial waves is measured with high frequency pressure sensors. The possibility to generate and excite second mode instability waves with this setup is demonstrated. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.