The physics of liquid impact, shock wave interactions with cavities, and the implications to shock wave lithotripsy

Abstract

The author reviews research on the physics of liquid impact and the behaviour of cavities when a shock passes over them. It is shown that the problems are related since when a cavity collapses near a solid surface, or is collapsed by a shock wave, the collapse is asymmetric and a liquid jet is produced which can impact an adjacent solid. The implications of this research to shock wave lithotripsy are emphasized. Finally, the development of a device, based on liquid jet impact, for fragmenting kidney stones, is described.