X-ray lasers and high-density plasma
The improved reliability, high brightness, and short wavelength of x-ray lasers make them ideally suited for studying large, high-density plasmas of interest to the laser-fusion research community. We have been developing the neonlike yttrium x-ray laser as a probe, together with the necessary multilayer mirrors and beam splitters, to image plasmas produced at the Nova laser facility and to measure electron density. With its short-wavelength (15.5-nm) light, we can use the yttrium x-ray laser to probe plasma densities up to 10{sup 23} cm{sup {minus}3}. At the highest magnification (30?), the spatial resolution of our imaging system is better than 1 {mu}m. Using the technique of moire deflectometry, we have measured density gradients of plasmas. Using the technique of interferometry, we have probed 3-mm-long plasmas with electron densities up to 3? 10{sup 21} cm{sup {minus}3}. Temporal blurring of plasma images remains the main limitation of our approach. Thus, we are continuing to improve our theoretical and experimental understanding of laboratory x-ray lasers. We are currently working on techniques to reduce the blurring of images by shortening the x-ray laser pulse to durations approaching about 20 ps. In the future, this important research tool can be applied to study high-density plasmas produced at the proposed National Ignition Facility. Other important applications of the x-ray laser include biological imaging of whole, live cells and other structures at resolutions superior to those obtainable by conventional optical microscopy.
- OSTI ID:
- 68713
- Journal Information:
- Energy and Technology Review, Other Information: PBD: Mar 1995
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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