Structuring Free-Standing Foils for Laser-Driven Particle Acceleration Experiments

• Main Authors: Cernaianu, M.O (Author), Doria, D. (Author), Ghenuche, P. (Author), Gheorghiu, C.C (Author), Ionescu, S.C (Author), Leca, V. (Author), Popa, D. (Author)
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A. 2021
• Subjects: enhanced acceleration mechanism; fabrication; free-standing; optimization; structured targets
• Online Access: View Fulltext in Publisher

 The recent development of petawatt-class laser systems sets a focus on the development of ultra-thin free-standing targets to access enhanced particle acceleration schemes vital for future applications, such as, medical and laser-driven nuclear physics. Specific strategies are required to improve the laser-to-particle energy conversion efficiency and increase the maximum particle energy. One of the promising approaches is based on the target design optimization; either by tuning key parameters which will strongly affect the laser-matter interaction process (e.g., material, composition, density, thickness, lateral dimensions, and shape) or by using micro/nanostructures on the target surface. At ELI-NP, considerable efforts are dedicated to extend the target capabilities beyond simple planar target design and develop complex targets with tailored properties suitable for high-power laser-plasma interaction experiments, as well as for studies with gamma and positrons beams. The paper provides an overview of the manufacturing capabilities currently available within ELI-NP Targets Laboratory for providing users with certain types of solid targets, specifically micro/nanostructured gold and copper foils and microns thick, porous anodized alumina. Also, optimization studies of alternative patterns (micro/nanodots) on silicon substrate are presented for future implementation on metallic free-standing thin foils. © Copyright © 2021 Gheorghiu, Ionescu, Ghenuche, Cernaianu, Doria, Popa and Leca.