Frequency spectrum of laser-generated ultrasonic waves

Abstract

The frequency spectrum of laser-generated ultrasound has been measured from 5 to 60 MHz. Diffraction corrections are applied to account for spherical wave spreading from the laser-ultrasonic source and the transducer response to spherical waves. The deconvolution applied to obtain the frequency spectrum is described. The spectral shape found agrees qualitatively with a theoretical model for stress wave generation in a laser heated liquid.