Betatron X-rays for high-resolution imaging of micrometer-scale features in advanced materials

During laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA), relativistic electrons trapped in the focusing phase of plasma wakefield undergo transverse oscillations leading to the emission of broadband keV X-rays, also known as betatron X-rays. Betatron X-rays have small, micro-meter source sizes with few-femtosecond pulse duration, making them ideally suited for high-resolution and time-resolved imaging of dense materials. Here, we will present characterization of the X-ray spectrum, spatial resolution, and source size of betatron X-rays generated using the Advanced Laser Light Source in Varennes, Canada. We present the optimization of these sources for imaging of defect evolution in additively manufactured AlSi10Mg alloys under tensile stress to elucidate the fracture mechanics of these novel materials. We also explore the application of betatron sources for probing of plasma structures generated in pulsed discharges in water to help address open questions about breakdown mechanisms in liquids.