Tests of proton laser-acceleration using circular laser polarization, foams and half gas-bag targets

P. Antici, A. Mancic, M. Nakatsutsumi, P. Audebert, E. Brambrink, S. Gaillard, W. Nazarov, J. Fuchs

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

We have analyzed laser-accelerated protons, generated at the rear surface of a solid target irradiated by an ultra-intense (I similar to 10(18) to 5 x 10(19) W cm(-2)) short laser pulse in different conditions: (1) using linear and circular polarization; (2) using 'foam' targets, i.e. targets where a density gradient has been artificially generated by adding a foam onto a solid and (3) using 'half gas-bag' targets, where the density gradient has been artificially generated by having a gas assembly in front of the solid. In all these varied conditions, and for our laser and target parameters, no enhancement of proton acceleration could be found, compared with the standard set-up using a linearly polarized laser irradiating a flat metal foil. Potential issues and solutions are discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Article number014002
Number of pages9
JournalPlasma Physics and Controlled Fusion
Volume53
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2011

Keywords

  • HIGH-INTENSITY LASER
  • SOLID TARGETS
  • ION-BEAMS
  • ELECTRON
  • PULSES
  • PLASMA
  • IRRADIATION
  • GENERATION
  • DRIVEN

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