Machining processes are needed in many industrial areas. Laser-based machining often has the advantages such as high spatial resolution, no... Show moreMachining processes are needed in many industrial areas. Laser-based machining often has the advantages such as high spatial resolution, no mechanical tool wear, etc., and has current and potential applications in many areas. The objective of this research work is to conduct physics-based modeling studies to help the understanding of some physical processes relevant to two novel laser-based machining processes: (i) the Ultrasound-assisted water-confined laser micromachining (UWLM) process (proposed by Prof. Benxin Wu), and (ii) the Dual-pulse laser ablation and plasma amplification (LAPA) process for drilling microholes with variable diameters at different depths (proposed by Prof. Yung C. Shin). The models are developed by numerically solving the relevant governing equations, and are tested by comparing with related experimental measurements when available. The specific topics that have been studied include: (i) Bubble evolution close to a solid boundary; (ii) Ultrasound propagation and cavitation in water; (iii) Laser amplification of pre-existing plasma in a microhole and plasma interaction with the hole sidewall. Ph.D. in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, May 2017 Show less
