Laser Heating of Metals (Series in Optics and Optoelectronics)

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.

"...Chapters 4-8 are particularly unique...The authors are to be congratulated for managing to provide a sound and thorough mathematical treatment of each topic without losing sight of the important underlying practical implications. Its clear, concise yet comprehensive treatment, should ensure it becomes a standard text in this field." -- Contemporary Physics