Multi-messenger dynamic imaging of laser-driven shocks in water using a plasma wakefield accelerator

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Fusion Energy Research
• Laser-Matter Interactions

Background:

• Dense matter hydrodynamics is crucial for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research.
• Existing diagnostic methods for ICF plasmas have limitations in resolution and field detection.
• Advanced diagnostics are needed to understand complex plasma dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a dual-probe, multi-messenger diagnostic platform for ICF research.
• To investigate the dynamics of laser-heated dense matter using synchronized X-ray and electron beams.
• To explore phenomena beyond the scope of traditional photon diagnostics and hydrodynamic simulations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a laser wakefield accelerator platform generating ultrafast X-rays and relativistic electron beams at 1 Hz.
• Interrogated a free-flowing water target in vacuum heated by an intense laser pulse.
• Synchronized X-ray (betatron) and electron beam diagnostics to capture spatiotemporal evolution.

Main Results:

• Observed cylindrically symmetric shock compression morphology in the plasma.
• Detected time-evolving electromagnetic fields, revealing charge separation and ion species differentiation.
• Demonstrated that combined probes provide complementary insights across kinetic and hydrodynamic regimes.

Conclusions:

• The dual-probe platform offers unprecedented insights into fusion-relevant plasma dynamics.
• Combined X-ray and electron beam diagnostics capture phenomena missed by single probes or simulations.
• Hybrid physics models are necessary for accurate prediction of fusion plasma behavior.