Simulations of short pulse laser-matter interaction

TL;DR

This paper discusses simulation methods for ultra-fast laser-matter interactions, focusing on melting, jet formation, and rupture in thin films caused by picosecond laser pulses, which are challenging to observe experimentally.

Contribution

It introduces specific simulation approaches to model complex physical processes occurring during ultra-fast laser interactions with thin films.

Findings

Simulation results of melting and jet formation.

Insights into rupture mechanisms of thin films.

Application of models to relevant laser processing scenarios.

Abstract

Studies of ultra-fast laser-matter interaction are important for many applications. Such interaction triggers extreme physical processes which are localized in the range from $\sim 10$ nanometers to micron spatial scales and developing within picosecond$-$nanosecond time range. Thus the experimental observations are difficult and methods of applied mathematics are necessary to understand these processes. Here we describe our simulation approaches and present solutions for a laser problem significant for applications. Namely, the processes of melting, a liquid jet formation, and its rupture are considered. Motion with the jet is caused by a short $\sim 0.1-1$ ps pulse illuminating a small spot on a surface of a thin $\sim 10-100$ nm film deposited onto substrate.