X-ray imaging techniques on Z using the Z-Beamlet laser
The Z-Beamlet laser backlighter system at Sandia National Laboratories, which will be operational in 2001, will create a point or area source of high (or moderate) energy x rays behind a Z-accelerator [R. B. Spielman , Phys. Plasmas 5, 2105 (1998)] -driven target. In the former case with >2 kJ in up to four pulses of <2 ns total duration in a 20 ns interval, and >80% of the 2{omega} energy in a {approx}50-{mu}m-diam focal spot, the resulting >4x10{sup 16}W/cm{sup 2} irradiances will generate {>=}8.950, 8.999 keV (zinc He-{alpha}, etc.) x rays. This high-energy source, as either a single point or four separate spots, will be used directly for four-frame point-projection x-ray imaging, and will attain spatial resolutions and signal-to-noise levels significantly better than presently possible on Z using existing methods. In combination with a {approx}1 cm field of view, the technique will be well suited to the large, relatively opaque objects characteristic of Z experiments. This addition is anticipated to have a major impact upon the basic physics of z-pinch implosions, and therefore, possibly the ultimate x-ray powers and hohlraum (vacuum or dynamic) radiation temperatures that may be attainable. Furthermore, in combination with a slightly defocused point source and a medium-energy grazing-incidence microscope, Z-Beamlet may allow various inertial confinement fusion and high-energy-density physics experiments to be studied at even higher spatial resolution and signal-to-noise levels.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- (US)
- OSTI ID:
- 40204865
- Journal Information:
- Review of Scientific Instruments, Vol. 72, Issue 1; Other Information: Othernumber: RSINAK000072000001000657000001; 545101CON; PBD: Jan 2001; ISSN 0034-6748
- Publisher:
- The American Physical Society
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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