Coherent Raman Scattering, Plasma Emission, and Acoustic Waves during Laser-Induced Breakdown in Water and Aqueous Solutions

by Ms. Zohar Burshtein

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

at Quantum optics seminar

Wed, 25 Jun 2025, 16:00
Zoom only

Abstract

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81082524096?pwd=oVM0ch6az61VSQoWkf4oZ9bHG6rkt7.1

This is a student seminar.

Abstract:
High-energy pulsed laser irradiation of liquid media results in various nonlinear optical and
physical phenomena. This study explores the pulse-to-pulse characteristics and averages of
phenomena caused by successive focused 532 nm nanosecond laser pulses at 10 Hz with
varying incident energies in water and ethanol-water solutions. We present observations of
backward and forward stimulated Raman scattering (BSRS/FSRS), coherent anti-Stokes
Raman scattering (CARS), spatial plasma intensity profiles, and acoustic signals. The O–H
stretch SRS spectra reveal a significant shot-to-shot variability that is often not apparent in
traditional averaging, providing valuable insights into the structure of the hydrogen bond (HB)
network in water and water-ethanol solutions. The SRS data, combined with plasma imaging,
suggest a threshold concentration of ethanol at which the HB network structure undergoes
changes. Additionally, further plasma imaging data indicates the influence of self-focusing on
plasma formation. Cross-referencing these findings with acoustic measurements offers insights
into the effects of repeated laser pulses on target properties and elucidates the relationship
between pressure-induced shockwaves and SRS spectra. The findings highlight the impact of
pulse-to-pulse interactions on measurements characteristics, potentially advancing the
understanding and applications of processes in liquid environments.

Created on 21-06-2025 by Folman, Ron (folman)
Updaded on 21-06-2025 by Folman, Ron (folman)