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Implementing a microphysics model in hydrodynamic simulations to study the initial plasma formation in dielectric
Arnab Kar1, S X Hu1, G Duchateau2
1Laboratory for Laser Energetics University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14623, USA.
Physical Review. E
|July 22, 2020
Summary
A new physics-based model for laser-driven plasma formation in plastic ablators improves upon ad hoc methods. This enhanced model accurately predicts electron temperature, pressure, and experimental observations like shinethrough and rear-end decompression.
Area of Science:
- Plasma Physics
- Laser-Material Interactions
- Hydrodynamic Modeling
Background:
- Current models for initial plasma formation in laser-driven ablators are often ad hoc.
- These models lack detailed microphysics, particularly for photoionization and impact ionization in dielectric materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement a physics-based microphysics model into the LILAC hydrodynamic code.
- To accurately describe photoionization and impact ionization processes in plastic ablator materials.
Main Methods:
- Integration of a microphysics model into the 1D hydrodynamic code LILAC.
- Application to both planar and spherical targets under laser irradiation.
Main Results:
- The physics-based model predicts higher electron temperatures and pressures compared to ad hoc models.
- Numerical predictions align with experimental observations of the shinethrough mechanism in plastic.
- Observed rear-end decompression in planar targets, consistent with recent experiments.
Conclusions:
- The implemented microphysics model provides a more accurate description of early-stage plasma formation.
- This model enhances understanding of laser-matter interactions, including the shinethrough and laser-imprint mechanisms.
