High-intensity scattering processes of relativistic electrons in vacuum

Journal Article · Fri May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1998 · Physics of Plasmas

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.872875· OSTI ID:627794

Hartemann, F V ^[1]

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1. Institute for Laser Science and Applications, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California94550

Recent advances in novel technologies such as chirped pulse amplification and high gradient rf photoinjectors make it possible to study experimentally the interaction of relativistic electrons with ultrahigh intensity photon fields. Femtosecond laser systems operating in the TW{endash}PW range are now available, as well as synchronized relativistic electron bunches with subpicosecond durations and THz bandwidths. Ponderomotive scattering can accelerate these electrons with extremely high gradients in a three-dimensional vacuum laser focus. The nonlinear Doppler shift induced by relativistic radiation pressure in Compton backscattering is shown to yield complex nonlinear spectra which can be modified by using temporal laser pulse shaping techniques. Colliding lasers pulses, where ponderomotive acceleration and Compton backscattering are combined, could also yield extremely short wavelength photons. Finally, strong radiative corrections are expected when the Doppler-upshifted laser wavelength approaches the Compton scale. These are discussed within the context of high field classical electrodynamics, a new discipline borne out of the aforementioned innovations. {copyright} {ital 1998 American Institute of Physics.}

• OSTI ID: 627794
• Report Number(s): CONF-971103--
• Journal Information: Physics of Plasmas, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas Journal Issue: 5 Vol. 5; ISSN PHPAEN; ISSN 1070-664X
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
BEAM-PLASMA SYSTEMS
COMPTON EFFECT
ELECTRODYNAMICS
ELECTRON BEAMS
FREE ELECTRON LASERS
LASER RADIATION
LIGHT SCATTERING
PHOTON-ELECTRON COLLISIONS
RADIATION PRESSURE
RADIATIVE CORRECTIONS