Modelling electron-beam converter interactions in laser-driven X-ray radiography

ORAL

Abstract

Short-pulse laser-plasma interactions provide a possible route to high-performance X-ray radiography. This scheme involves two main stages: the laser-target interaction which generates an electron beam with energies in the MeV range, and conversion of the electron beam to X-rays via bremsstrahlung. Here we focus on modelling of the latter process.

Modelling of the X-ray yield is conventionally achieved via Monte-Carlo particle transport simulations, using codes such as MCNP, GEANT4, and PENELOPE. However, it has been known for some time that electric fields generated within the electron-beam converter material may decelerate the electron beam and therefore reduce the X-ray yield, and this is not modelled by such codes.

In this presentation we discuss progress towards modelling the impact of the electric field via a new specialized Monte Carlo electron transport code. This incorporates electron transport algorithms from the PENELOPE Monte Carlo code, along with models for the heating and conductivity of the converter material.

*This work conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Triad National Security, LLC, operator of the Los Alamos National Laboratory under Contract No. 89233218CNA000001, with support from the Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program

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Presenters

  • Alexander G Seaton

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory

Authors

  • Alexander G Seaton

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory

  • Brian James Albright

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
    • Los Alamos Natl Lab

  • Chengkun Huang

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
    • Los Alamos Natl Lab

  • Scott V Luedtke

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory

  • Brandon M Medina

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory

  • Lin Yin

    • Los Alamos National Laboratory
    • Los Alamos Natl Lab