Energetic ions at moderate laser intensities using foam-based multi-layered targets

• Published in: Plasma physics and controlled fusion 2014-04, Vol.56 (4), p.45001-5
• Main Authors: Passoni, M, Zani, A, Sgattoni, A, Dellasega, D, Macchi, A, Prencipe, I, Floquet, V, Martin, P, Liseykina, T V, Ceccotti, T
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Controlled fusion; Feasibility; Fysik med inriktning mot rymd- och plasmafysik; laser-driven ion acceleration; laser-plasma interaction; Lasers; nanotechnology; Particle in cell technique; Physics; Physics with specialization in Space and Plasma Physics; Proton energy; Pulsed laser deposition; relativistic plasmas; Simulation; Two dimensional
• ISSN: 0741-3335; 1361-6587; 1361-6587
• DOI: 10.1088/0741-3335/56/4/045001

The experimental feasibility of the laser-driven ion acceleration concept with multi-layered, foam-based targets has been investigated. Targets with the required features have been produced and characterized, exploiting the potential of the pulsed laser deposition technique. In the intensity range 1016-1017 W cm−2, they allow us to obtain maximum proton energies 2-3 times higher compared to bare solid targets, able to reach and surpass the MeV range with both low and ultrahigh contrast pulses. The results of two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations, supporting the interpretation of the experimental results, and directions to exploit the concept also at ultrahigh intensities, are presented.