Simulation to thermal ablation of carbon fiber reinforced composites under laser irradiation

The research on the laser irradiation effects of composites can expand the field of laser techniques application. A model was proposed to predict the thermal responses of carbon fiber reinforced composites under laser irradiation in time and space domain. An implicit finite volume method was used to solve the governing equation. The boundary conditions were considered in the model, including laser heat flow, heat convection, heat radiation and surface recession rate. The progressive changes in thermo-physical properties including decomposition degree, mass transfer, specific heat capacity, and thermal conductivity were determined. The transient temperature and surface ablation rate of composites under laser irradiation were predicted, and the results were compared to experimental data. Finally the ablation model was modified to simulate the high-velocity airflow removed effects on composites.