Optimization of cold K-alpha emission using copper foams

Experiments were conducted at the Trident Laser Facility to increase the conversion efficiency of short-pulse, copper K-alpha x-ray backlighter sources. New target designs using copper foams are in development to investigate the role of underdense/near-critical density targets on the optimization of cold K-alpha emission. K-alpha emission was measured using Highly Ordered Pyrolytic Graphic (HOPG) and imaged with a toroidally bent quartz crystal to determine uniformity, spatial resolution and conversion efficiency of the new designs. Results from this experiment will help inform the development of short-pulse Cu K-alpha back-lighters on facilities like Omega, OmegaEP and the NIF, with a particular emphasis on creating advanced narrow-band backlighter sources capable of producing strong signal to noise with high x-ray fluxes.