Stress Evaluation and Model Validation Using Laser Ultrasonics

Rayleigh surface waves can be used to evaluate surface stresses and through-thickness stress gradients based on acoustoelasticity. Laser based ultrasonic techniques, which generate and detect surface waves, have the advantages of good spatial resolution and remote operation. The techniques have many potential applications. This is the final report of a LDRD project that is the first to exploit the benefits of laser ultrasonics for stress and stress gradient evaluation