Experiments and Analytical Modeling of Frequency-Targeted Laser Elastic Wave Generation and Detection in Aluminum Structures
Publication: Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 139, Issue 3
Abstract
Propagating solid elastic waves forms the basis of multiple nondestructive evaluation (NDE) and structural health monitoring techniques. The majority require direct sensor contact with the material or structure being tested. Conventional NDE methods such as ultrasonic testing have rigorous coupling requirements and limited ranges for damage or defect detection. These requirements and limitations make inspection of large areas or complex geometries slow and cumbersome or altogether impractical. Removing the requirement for contact between the sensor and structure could greatly relax the geometric and size limitations of current elastic wave–based NDE techniques. Laser-based excitation and detection of solid elastic waves are demonstrated capabilities; however, existing laser-based excitation techniques lack the precision and flexibility required by NDE methods that target specific wave modes or frequencies. This proof-of-concept study investigates using a pulsing laser for frequency controlled excitation of elastic waves. Low-frequency experiments demonstrate the principle of matching the excitation laser-pulse frequency to resonances of the tested component. An analytical thermoelastic analysis confirms that low-frequency results extend to higher-frequency ranges commonly used for NDE. The pairing of frequency-tuned, noncontacting laser-based excitation with existing noncontacting laser-based detection equipment could offer new possibilities for NDE of large areas and complex geometries.
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Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge Advanced Photon Sciences for supporting this research through Vermont Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (VT EPSCoR) Grant No. EPS-1101317.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 139 • Issue 3 • March 2013
Pages: 248 - 255
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 31, 2011
Accepted: Jul 31, 2012
Published online: Aug 7, 2012
Published in print: Mar 1, 2013
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