Multi-filter diamond array time-of-flight particle detector in laser-plasma experiments.

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Laser-Matter Interactions
• Particle Diagnostics

Background:

• Real-time diagnostics are crucial for analyzing laser-induced plasma experiments.
• Time-of-Flight (TOF) detectors offer reliable measurements of particle beam properties.
• Standard TOF detectors lack the ability to discriminate between different particle types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel diagnostic system for enhanced particle discrimination in laser-induced plasma.
• To overcome the limitations of traditional Time-of-Flight detectors.
• To enable detailed analysis of charged particle emissions from laser-irradiated targets.

Main Methods:

• Development of a Multi Filter Diamond Array (MFDA) using six diamond detectors and aluminum foils of varying thickness.
• Exploitation of particle stopping power differences for discrimination.
• Experimental testing and data analysis at the Prague Asterix Laser System.
• Cross-validation with Thomson Parabola Spectrometer and CR-39 detectors.

Main Results:

• The MFDA successfully demonstrated particle discrimination capabilities.
• Data analysis provided insights into ion beam properties and shot-to-shot reproducibility.
• Cross-validation confirmed the reliability and accuracy of the MFDA system.

Conclusions:

• The Multi Filter Diamond Array represents a significant advancement in real-time ion diagnostics for laser-induced plasmas.
• This technology enhances the understanding of laser-matter interactions by providing particle-specific data.
• MFDA offers a robust solution for future fusion energy research and other applications requiring precise ion analysis.