Line focus system with a segmented prism array for compact x-ray laser experiments

• Published in: Review of scientific instruments 1999-02, Vol.70 (2), p.1285-1287
• Main Authors: Yamaguchi, Naohiro, Ohchi, Tadayuki, Fujikawa, Chiemi, Ogata, Asuka, Hisada, Yoshiyuki, Okasaka, Kazunobu, Hara, Tamio, Tsunashima, Teruyoshi, Iizuka, Yutaka
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0034-6748; 1089-7623
• DOI: 10.1063/1.1149632

We have designed a new focusing system with a five-segmented prism array in combination with a beam expander and cylindrical lens assembly for compact x-ray laser experiments using a yttrium–aluminum–garnet (YAG) laser. The focusing characteristics were examined from irradiation patterns on a target. It was found that a beam of 25 mm diameter whose intensity profile was not uniform was condensed to a focused line having about 12 mm length and 50 μm width with a flat intensity distribution along the line on average, though the small-scale intensity modulation due to interference among the beamlets was observed. Spectroscopic observation of the plasma produced by irradiating the YAG laser of 2 J energy onto an Al slab target showed that highly ionized ions were produced up to the Li-like ionic stage. The new lens system is useful for compact x-ray laser research.