Experimental system and method of aerobic thermal environment simulation based on laser heating

Abstract Considering the superior luminous intensity characteristics of lasers, a thermal simulation platform employing laser-induced heating in an aerobic environment was developed. Achieving a uniformly distributed flat-topped square laser beam output was facilitated through optical fibre bundling techniques, while precise control over laser power output was attained through current modulation. Utilising the aforementioned system, thermal shock simulation experiments were conducted in an aerobic environment, subjecting two types of high-temperature-resistant composites, namely C/C and C/SiC, to temperatures up to 1800 °C. These composites were lightweight, heat-resistant materials designed for hypersonic vehicle applications. The results show that the system and method can be used to simulate high temperatures, rapid temperature increases, and thermal shocks on C/C composite materials, with minimal variation in the coupling coefficient under aerobic conditions. The system and method can also provide key technology support for thermal-force-oxygen coupling testing of high temperature resistant materials.