Experimental study of focused shock-wave initiated by underwater air-bubble-guided spark discharges

The process of liquid-phase discharge plasma generates shock waves powerful enough to shatter hard rock. High-pressure pulsed discharge stands at the forefront of rock fragmentation research, eclipsing other non-explosive techniques like thermal energy fracturing, rotary drilling, and high-pressure water jets. Its rise to prominence is attributed to the system’s straightforward design, heightened operational safety, absence of projectile rock fragments, and its environmentally friendly, pollution-free nature.