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Abstract
The acceleration of ions from ultrathin foils has been investigated by using 250 TW, subpicosecond laser pulses, focused to intensities of up to 3 X 10(20) W cm(-2). The ion spectra show the appearance of narrow-band features for protons and carbon ions peaked at higher energies (in the 5-10 MeV/nucleon range) and with significantly higher flux than previously reported. The spectral features and their scaling with laser and target parameters provide evidence of a multispecies scenario of radiation pressure acceleration in the light sail mode, as confirmed by analytical estimates and 2D particle-in-cell simulations. The scaling indicates that monoenergetic peaks with more than 100 MeV/nucleon are obtainable with moderate improvements of the target and laser characteristics, which are within reach of ongoing technical developments.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 185006 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Volume | 109 |
Issue number | 18 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2 Nov 2012 |
Keywords
- intense laser radiation
- ultrathin foils
- ion acceleration
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Dive into the research topics of 'Ion acceleration in multispecies targets driven by intense laser radiation pressure'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Projects
- 1 Finished
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KEY PHYSICS FOR INERTIAL CONFINEMENT DIAGNOSED BY ION EMISSION
McKenna, P. (Principal Investigator)
EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council)
1/10/07 → 30/09/11
Project: Research