The destruction mechanism of laser weapons
1. Thermal damage. When the target is irradiated by a strong laser, the surface material absorbs heat and is heated, softening, melting, vaporizing and then ionizing. When the target material's deep temperature is higher than the surface temperature to accelerate vaporization, the internal pressure increases and an explosion occurs.
The laser weapon installed on the US guided missile destroyer USS Dewey
The laser weapon installed on the US guided missile destroyer USS Dewey
2. Mechanical failure. When the object is irradiated by the laser, the plasma formed by gasification and ionization is ejected outward at high speed, and the formed recoil force will deform the target.
3. Radiation damage. Plasma can radiate ultraviolet or X-rays and destroy electronic components inside the target.