Abstract
Relativistic electrons generated by the interaction of petawatt-class short laser pulses with solid targets can be used to generate bright X-rays via bremsstrahlung. The efficiency of laser energy transfer into these electrons depends on multiple parameters including focused intensity and pre-plasma level. This paper describes the experimental results from the interaction of a high intensity petawatt-class glass laser with solid targets at a maximum intensity of 10^19 W/cm^2. In-situ measurements of specularly reflected light were used to provide an upper bound of laser absorption and to characterize focused laser intensity, the pre-plasma level and the generation mechanism of second harmonic light. The measured spectrum of electrons and bremsstrahlung radiation provide information about the efficiency of laser energy transfer.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion |
Early online date | 1 Dec 2020 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 1 Dec 2020 |
Keywords
- relativistic electrons
- petawatt-class short laser pulses
- solid target
- bremsstrahlung
- plasma