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Laser-driven hydrodynamic perturbation in an overdense Z-pinch plasma

Journal Article · · J. Appl. Phys.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.326270· OSTI ID:6075737
Holographic interferometry of the interaction of a radially incident intense CO/sub 2/ laser beam (10/sup 11/ W/cm/sup 2/, 38-nsec FWHM pulse) with an overdense helium Z-pinch plasma (n/sub e/>10/sup 19/ e/cm/sup 3/, T/sub e/approx.20 eV, L=100 ..mu..m) has indicated the presence of a laser-driven shock. The radial dimension of the shock was found to be similar to the electron thermal conduction length, several times larger than the focal-spot dimension. Density structure within the shock was inferred from holographic interferograms. Heuristic considerations of the shock density ratio, the front thickness, and the shock velocity allowed for an estimate of 50--80% energy absorption.
Research Organization:
Laser Plasma Interaction Laboratory, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
OSTI ID:
6075737
Journal Information:
J. Appl. Phys.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Appl. Phys.; (United States) Vol. 50:4; ISSN JAPIA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English