Finite element modeling of laser-generated Lamb waves

Abstract Results from finite element models of laser-generated Lamb waves are presented in terms of temperature, displacement, frequency spectrum and equivalent thermal (body) forces at various times. Temperature profile from the finite element results compared favorably with existing semi-analytical solutions. Effects of mesh densities were assessed which showed that no discernible spurious wave reflection had occurred. Results from different meshes, including different mechanical and thermal ones where a Dirac δ technique has been used to redistribute the equivalent body forces, showed that the dominant factor in obtaining a quality wave is the mesh for the mechanical domain. Coarse meshes give waves of higher frequency but at negligible amplitudes.