Bright laser-driven neutron source based on the relativistic transparency of solids

Area of Science:

• Nuclear physics
• Laser-driven particle acceleration
• Materials science

Background:

• Neutrons are crucial probes in diverse scientific fields.
• Current bright, pulsed neutron sources are large and facility-based.
• There is a growing demand for compact, accessible neutron sources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop compact, cost-effective neutron sources using short pulse lasers.
• To achieve high neutron yields sufficient for practical applications.
• To demonstrate a novel ion acceleration mechanism for neutron production.

Main Methods:

• Utilized short pulse laser interactions with a target to drive ion acceleration.
• Employed a relativistic transparency-based ion acceleration mechanism.
• Directed accelerated high-energy deuterons (up to 170 MeV) onto a Beryllium (Be) converter.
• Generated a forward-peaked neutron flux.

Main Results:

• Achieved a record neutron yield of approximately 10^10 n/sr.
• Demonstrated a novel ion acceleration mechanism leading to intense deuteron beams.
• Produced the first neutron radiograph using a short pulse laser-generated neutron source.

Conclusions:

• Short pulse laser-driven neutron sources are a viable compact alternative to large facilities.
• The demonstrated acceleration mechanism significantly enhances neutron production efficiency.
• This advancement opens possibilities for portable neutron applications and imaging.