Multiple Scattering of Laser-Beam Radiation

Abstract

This paper summarizes the experiential radiation-scattering research done at the University of Missouri-Rolla over the past 25 years. Complimentary theoretical studies are used to interpret the results. Anisotropic, multiple scattering is studied. the scattering situation is two-dimensional and cylindrical because the laser beam is incident normal to the upper surface of the scattering medium. Backscattered radiation in the normal direction is predicted and measured as a function of the distance from the incident laser beam. the influence of anisotropic scattering can be reduced to an effective isotropic scattering through the use of the asymmetry factor. Transmitted radiation is predicted and measured as a function of the distance from the incident laser beam. Effects of the angular details of the scattering phase function tend to become washed out at large optical depths. Side-scattered radiation in the radial direction is predicted and measured as a function of the distance below the upper surface of the scattering medium. Side-scattering measurements for optically thin media compare well with single scattering theory. Effects of multiple scattering on polarization are discussed. Polarization tends to make two-dimensional problems three-dimensional and requires the solution of the vector radiation transport equation.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

1533-6808; 0887-8722

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2024 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2004

Link to Full Text

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