Specific Impulse Analysis of Solid Materials for Ablative Laser Propulsion

The proposed work is directed towards the understanding and utilization of the relatively unexplored concept of ablative laser propulsion (ALP). The work will include direct measurements of the specific impulse imparted to solid targets under short-pulse laser irradiation. The purpose of the proposed work is to demonstrate the viability of the ALP concept and to develop a set of specific requirements for solid materials best suited for ALP, supported by data on specific impulse as a function of material properties and irradiation conditions. Pulse width, pulse repetition rate and laser wavelength are expected to be important parameters. Anticipated results of the Phase-I work are an understanding of factors defining specific impulse due to material properties and irradiation conditions and selection of candidate elements for the Phase-II research. In Phase II, we anticipate discovering the factors, such as material composition and irradiation conditions, determining specific impulse and other parameters (such as mass removal rates, angular distributions of ion energy and number density, charge states, etc.) critical for ALP. ~000141 ~