Phase Transitions Induced by Short Laser Pulses

The book presents the recent advances in studies of phase transitions induced by short laser pulses in solids and the interface solid-liquid. The review is presented of previous and new results of experimental and theoretical description of phase boiling phenomenon under the action of short laser pulses. Time-resolved characterisation of the phase transitions induced by short laser pulses in metals in confined geometry is described in details, and the results are compared with classical equation of states of the materials in sub- and super-critical range of parameters. Phase transitions in the films of cryogenic molecular compounds doped with different impurities are thoroughly studied with respect to their use in MALDI and MAPLE processes. Modelling and new experimental data are described on explosive boiling of liquid under laser exposure of its free surface. Novel experimental results are presented on instabilities at the solid-liquid interface exposed to pico- and femtosecond laser pulses. Morphological and optical properties of resulting nanostructures periodic relief are described. Theoretical modelling of instabilities and structures formation under laser exposure is given on the basis of defect-deformational instability. Modelling results are found to be in good agreement with experimental data. The book is of interest for scientists, post-graduate students and engineers working in the field of laser-matter interaction.