Advanced applications for 0.53 laser light

Abstract

Use of the National Ignition Facility with green light as the laser output is an intriguing option for advanced applications ranging from inertial fusion to production of compact x-ray sources. Particular attention is given to the potential use of 0.53 micrometers light to produce a high-energy x-ray source. This application requires the efficient generation of high-energy electrons which can subsequently produce high-energy x-rays as they transport into gold or other high Z wall. One- and two-dimensional computer simulations are used to explore high-energy electron generation by intense 0.53 micrometers laser light in a plasma with density near one-quarter the critical density. Significant absorption is shown to occur into high-energy electrons with an effective temperature which is reduced by the development of ion fluctuations. The results compare favorably with some recent experiments using 0.53 micrometers light.