Complete numerical description of the laser-induced thermal profile in a liquid, to explain complex self-induced diffraction patterns

TL;DR

This paper provides a comprehensive numerical model of laser-induced thermal profiles in liquids, explaining complex diffraction patterns and improving understanding of laser-fluid interactions through experimental validation.

Contribution

It introduces a detailed numerical approach to accurately describe thermal effects and diffraction patterns in laser-irradiated liquids, surpassing previous simplistic models.

Findings

Accurate prediction of thermal profiles in liquids under laser irradiation.

Explanation of complex diffraction patterns through thermal effects.

Validation of the model with experimental data.

Abstract

In the past, laser propagation in a fluid with heat transfer has been modeled using simplistic conduction and convection conditions yielding inaccurate predictions. Here we present a detailed numerical study describing the thermal profile of the fluid and its interaction with the laser. Furthermore, we evaluate the diffraction field in the far field produced by a pump beam impinging in the fluid and the interferometric pattern obtained normal to the propagation direction to test our model. Direct comparison between experimental results and numerical simulation allows for a complete understanding of the energy transfer from the laser to the liquid and the subsequent effect on the laser propagation. Spatial self-phase modulation and propagation control from small-phase diffraction to aberration-controlled diffraction and up to diffraction oscillation are observed and explained with our modeling.