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Laser-generated
stress wave profiles with rarefaction shocks (almost zero post-peak
decay times) have been uncovered in different types of glasses (see
image below). The formation of the rarefaction shock is attributed
to the increased compressibility of glasses with increasing pressures.
This was demonstrated using a one-dimensional
nonlinear elastic wave propagation model in which the wave speed
was taken as a function of particle velocity. The technological
importance of these pulses in measuring the tensile strength of
very thin film interfaces is demonstrated by using a previously
developed laser spallation experiment in which a laser-generated
compressive stress pulse in the substrate reflects into a tensile
wave from the free surface of the film and pries off its interface
at a threshold amplitude. Because of the rarefaction shock, glass-modified
waves allow generation of substantially higher interfacial tensile
stress amplitudes compared with those with finite post-peak decay
profiles. Thus, for the first time, tensile strength of very strong
and ultra thin film interfaces can be measured.
Results presented here indicate
that interfaces with strengths as high as 2.62 GPa and adhesion
of films with thickness as low as 320 nm can be measured. Thus,
an important advance has been made that should allow material optimization
of ultra-thin layer systems that may form basis of future MEMS-based
microelectronic, mechanical and clinical devices.

Linear velocity interferometer profiles obtained
from the free surface of a soda lime glass disc
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