Mixed matrix formulation for the analysis of laser-generated acoustic waves by a thermoelastic line source

An analytical model has been developed for the generation of bulk and surface acoustic waves at the surface of an isotropic solid by an infinite thermoelastic laser line source. This model is based on the mixed matrix formulation. It leads to expressions in closed form for the longitudinal and transverse bulk displacements and also for the Rayleigh wave components. A comparison with other models shows that the mechanical effect of the free surface reduces the strength of the two dipoles of force equivalent to the point thermoelastic source. For Rayleigh waves, quantitative agreement has been found with a numerical model and with experiments previously carried out on a duraluminum plate. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.