Laser-based synchrotron X-ray radiation experimental scaling

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• High-Energy-Density Physics
• Laser-Plasma Interactions

Background:

• Laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) is a promising method for generating high-energy electrons and secondary radiation.
• Producing intense and stable X-ray beams from LWFA requires precise control over laser pulse propagation in plasma targets.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the scaling of X-ray emission from synchrotron radiation generated during LWFA.
• To analyze the physical processes governing the generation of intense and stable X-ray beams.
• To determine the photon yield scaling law for hard X-rays (10-40 keV) and estimate emission at higher laser powers.

Main Methods:

• Experimental campaigns utilizing the INRS high-power laser system.
• Generation of relativistic laser pulses and their stable propagation in gas jet targets via self-guiding.
• Measurement and analysis of hard X-ray emission (10-40 keV).

Main Results:

• Achieved stable propagation of relativistic laser pulses over lengths exceeding dephasing and depletion limits.
• Generated intense hard X-ray beams with up to 200 TW on target.
• Established an experimental scaling law for photon yield in the 10-40 keV range.

Conclusions:

• Stable self-guiding of intense laser pulses in gas targets enables efficient generation of hard X-ray beams.
• The derived scaling law provides a basis for predicting X-ray yields at various laser parameters.
• Extrapolation suggests significant X-ray emission capabilities at the emerging 1 PW laser power level.