Source size analysis of x-rays driven by laser wakefield acceleration

ORAL

Abstract

We developed an analytical tool based on the Fresnel Diffraction formalism, to determine the X-ray source size of Laser Wakefield (LWFA) generated X-rays, in several regimes (Self Modulated, Nano-particle enhanced, Blowout LWFA) and at multiple facilities (Berkeley Lab Laser Accelerator, Texas Petawatt, and Jupiter Laser Facility). This analysis will help us understand the properties of these X-ray sources for use in radiography in High Energy Density (HED) science applications. For our analysis, a razor blade was imaged using the respective X-ray sources, and from the diffraction pattern cast onto the detector, we can fit a model diffraction pattern to determine the x-ray source size. This work primarily focuses on Betatron X-rays, and Inverse Compton Scattering and Bremsstrahlung X-ray sources were also examined. Due to the different pulse durations and laser parameters available at different facilities, it is important to examine various regimes of LWFA when designing an X-ray diagnostic to be used for radiography of HED phenomena. We will show the distinction between X-ray source sizes generated by different LWFA regimes, and at different laser facilities.

*This work was performed under the auspices of the Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC, (LLNS) under Contract No. DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Presenters

  • Isabella M Pagano

    • University of Texas at Austin
    • University of Texas at Austin/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Authors

  • Isabella M Pagano

    • University of Texas at Austin
    • University of Texas at Austin/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
  • Paul M King

    • University of Texas at Austin/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
  • Andrea Hannasch

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Thanh Ha

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Alejandro A Franco

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Hai-En Tsai

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Tobias M Ostermayr

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Robert E Jacob

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Sahel Hakimi

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Anthony J Gonsalves

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Jeroen van Tilborg

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Carl B Schroeder

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Eric H Esarey

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Cameron R Geddes

    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
  • Mario Balcazar

    • University of Michigan
  • Yong Ma

    • University of Michigan
    • University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
  • Alexander G Thomas

    • University of Michigan
    • University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
  • Carolyn C Kuranz

    • University of Michigan
  • Hernan J Quevedo

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Michael M Spinks

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Constantin Aniculaesei

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Nuno Lemos

    • Lawrence Livermore Natl Lab
  • B M Hegelich

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Michael C Downer

    • University of Texas at Austin
  • Felicie Albert

    • Lawrence Livermore Natl Lab