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High average-flux laser-driven neutron source.

Simon Vallières1, François Fillion-Gourdeau1,2, Sylvain Fourmaux3

  • 1Advanced Laser Light Source (ALLS), Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique-Énergie, Matériaux et Télécommunications (INRS-EMT), 1650 Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, Montréal, QC, Canada.

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|November 20, 2025
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

We developed a stable, high-repetition-rate laser-driven neutron source using laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA). This novel method achieves record neutron flux, outperforming previous laser-based techniques and the target-normal sheath acceleration (TNSA) scheme.

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Area of Science:

  • Nuclear Physics
  • Plasma Physics
  • Laser-driven particle acceleration

Background:

  • Laser-driven neutron sources offer compact, short-pulse alternatives to traditional methods.
  • Current laser-based neutron generation struggles to match the performance of reactors or accelerators.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a stable, high-repetition-rate laser-driven neutron source.
  • To achieve unprecedented neutron flux and yield using laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA).
  • To compare LWFA-based neutron generation with the target-normal sheath acceleration (TNSA) scheme.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) to accelerate electrons to relativistic energies.
  • Employed Bremsstrahlung emission and photonuclear reactions in a tungsten converter for neutron generation.
  • Conducted experimental measurements and Monte Carlo simulations for validation.

Main Results:

  • Achieved a record average neutron flux of 7.8 × 10^7 n/sr/s, an order of magnitude higher than previous laser sources.
  • Recorded a neutron flux of 3.0 × 10^7 n/cm^2/s near the target, comparable to some compact accelerator sources.
  • Demonstrated a total neutron yield of 3.9 × 10^8 neutrons per shot, significantly outperforming the TNSA scheme.

Conclusions:

  • The LWFA-based approach represents a significant advancement for practical laser-driven neutron sources.
  • This method offers superior neutron flux and yield compared to the TNSA scheme.
  • Highlights the potential of LWFA for future applications in medical science, material science, and imaging.