Laser Refractography

Book excerpt: This monograph is devoted to the description of the physical fundamentals of laser refractography—a novel informational-measuring technique for the diagnostics of optically inhomogeneous media and flows, based on the idea of using spatially structured probe laser radiation in combination with its digital recording and c- puter techniques for the differential processing of refraction patterns. Considered are the physical fundamentals of this technique, actual optical schemes, methods of processing refraction patterns, and possible applications. This informational technique can be employed in such areas of science and technology as require remote nonperturbative monitoring of optical, thermophysical, chemical, aerohydrodynamic, and manufacturing processes. The monograph can also be recommended for students and postgraduates of - formational, laser, electro-optical, thermophysical, chemical, and other specialties. Laser refractography is a conceptually novel refraction method for the diagn- tics of inhomogeneous media, based on the idea of using spatially structured probe laser radiation in combination with its digital recording and computer techniques for the differential processing of refraction patterns.