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Brunel harmonics generated from ionizing clusters by few-cycle laser pulses
Optics Letters
|February 16, 2019
Summary
We theoretically investigate harmonic generation in nano-clusters using intense laser pulses. A Brunel-type mechanism, driven by subcycle ionization, shifts spectra toward odd harmonics, suggesting potential for vacuum-ultraviolet radiation sources.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Nonlinear Optics
- Atomic and Molecular Physics
Background:
- Harmonic generation is a key process in nonlinear optics, used for frequency conversion.
- Ionizing nano-clusters with intense lasers presents unique dynamics compared to atomic gases.
- Few-cycle laser pulses enable exploration of ultrafast ionization phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically investigate harmonic generation from ionizing nano-clusters irradiated by intense few-cycle laser pulses.
- To identify the underlying harmonic generation mechanism and its characteristics.
- To assess the potential of nano-clusters as a source for vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) radiation.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical study of harmonic generation.
- Analysis of subcycle ionization dynamics in nano-clusters.
- Modeling of Mie oscillations and their influence on harmonic spectra.
Main Results:
- Identification of a Brunel-type harmonic generation mechanism originating from subcycle ionization.
- Observation of spectral shifts toward odd-order harmonics of the Mie frequency (ωM) due to efficient Mie oscillations.
- Significant single-cluster harmonic yield and relaxed phase-matching conditions in overdense clustered plasmas.
Conclusions:
- Few-cycle laser pulse irradiation of nano-clusters drives a unique harmonic generation mechanism.
- Nano-clusters can efficiently generate odd-order harmonics of the Mie frequency.
- Ionizing nano-clusters offer a promising avenue for generating vacuum-ultraviolet radiation.
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