Laser Heating of Metals

This book provides a systematic and comprehensive presentation of the fundamental principles underlying the physical and chemical mechanisms governing the interaction of laser radiation with solid targets for a wide range of beam parameters. Emphasis is placed on metals in gaseous environments.

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In order to ensure efficient use of lasers, and for any large-scale implementation, a thorough knowledge of the fundamental laws governing the interaction of radiation with matter is required. Laser Heating of Metals provides a systematic and comprehensive presentation of the fundamental principles underlying the physical and chemical mechanisms governing the interaction of laser radiation with solid targets, and in particular metals in gaseous environments, for a wide range of beam parameters. The authors have been active in the field of interactions between lasers and materials for many years, and this book summarises the results of their work, in particular concerning the action of CO2 lasers on metals. These results are then discussed at some length. Laser Heating of Materials will be of interest to scientists at all levels with an interest in the interaction of radiation with condensed matter, and in particular to those involved in laser cutting and welding etc, and metal-working.