Photothermal wave propagation in media with thermal memory

Generalized expressions of photothermal wave propagation are derived, including the thermal memory effects. The focus is on optically opaque solids. The models of photothermal spectra based on the suggested descriptions are discussed for a semi-infinite sample and two limiting cases of backing-an ideal insulator and an ideal conductor backing. The results are compared with previous models. (C) 2003 American Institute of Physics