Published online by Cambridge University Press: 26 February 2011
Pump-probe imaging of femtosecond pulsed laser ablation was performed to investigate the mechanical shock induced on an intermetallic superalloy CMSX-4 during femtosecond laser machining. Time resolved shadowgraphic images were collected of the shock wave produced in the air above the target following laser exposure (0-10.3 nanoseconds). The dimensions of the shock wave were measured as a function of delay time and laser fluence (1.27 J/cm2 - 62.8 J/cm2). Time-resolved shadowgraphic images of the ablation event will be presented, and the corresponding damage morphology as a function of incident laser fluence will be discussed.