Analysis of numerical models to describe inner flow-field evolution of laser propulsion with water propellant

To describe inner flow-field of laser propulsion with water propellant, mathematical models based on analysis of its characteristics was established. Effects of evaporation model and deformation and breaking model on evolution of inner flow-field were investigated. Results show that capacity change rate of droplet is no more than 0.0216% caused by evaporation and volume of broken water drop produced by shock wave is about 1.5% of the original one. So evaporation can be ignored in the process of flow-field evolution, and deformation and breaking must be considered for its second atomization and its effect on deposition of laser energy.