Prof Peter Norreys FInstP;

Abstract:

The process of fast ignition (FI) using various laser systems was analyzed. A Petta watt (PW) laser system was used to study the basic elements relevant to FI, which could also be injected to a compressed core. Using a spherical target inserted with a Au cone guide for the PW laser pulse, an imploded core was heated upto 1 keV resulting in neutron increase which is 1000 times more than that without heating pulse.

Abstract:

Proton emission from 60-fs, 200-mJ high-repetition-rate tabletop-laser pulses interacting with solid targets was studied. A maximum proton energy of 1.5 MeV was measured for Mylar targets of thickness 20-40 μm. Results showed a maximum energy of 950 keV for 12μm for aluminum targets, and 850 keV for 12.5μm for copper targets.

Abstract:

Measurements of proton emission have been made from a variety of solid targets irradiated by a 60-fs, 200-mJ, 7 x 10(18)-W cm(-2) laser system operating at 2 Hz. Optimum target conditions were found in terms of target material and thickness. For Mylar targets of thickness 20-40 microm, a maximum proton energy of 1.5 MeV was measured. For aluminum targets, a maximum energy of 950 keV was measured for 12 microm, and for copper, 850 keV for 12.5 microm.

Abstract:

Experiments were performed to distinguish between the origin of various structures present in the energetic proton signal at the rear of the target in high power laser-solid interactions. Three distinct proton populations that contribute to the signal observed on the detectors were identified.