Proton radiography of dynamic electric and magnetic fields in laser-produced high-energy-density plasmas

Journal Article · Thu Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2009 · Physics of Plasmas

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3096781· OSTI ID:950790

Li, C. K.; Séguin, F. H.; Frenje, J. A.; Manuel, M.; Casey, D.; Sinenian, N.; Petrasso, R. D.; Amendt, P. A.; Landen, O. L.; Rygg, J. R.; Town, R. P. J.; Betti, R.; Delettrez, J.; Knauer, J. P.; Marshall, F.; Meyerhofer, D. D.; Sangster, T. C.; Shvarts, D.; Smalyuk, V. A.; Soures, J. M. ; Back, C. A.; Kilkenny, J. D.; Nikroo, A.

Time-gated, monoenergetic-proton radiography provides unique measurements of the electric (E) and magnetic (B) fields produced in laser-foil interactions and during the implosion of inertial-confinement-fusion capsules. These experiments resulted in the first observations of several new and important features: (1) observations of the generation, decay dynamics, and instabilities of megagauss B fields in laser-driven planar plastic foils, (2) the observation of radial E fields inside an imploding capsule, which are initially directed inward, reverse direction during deceleration, and are likely related to the evolution of the electron pressure gradient, and (3) the observation of many radial filaments with complex electromagnetic field striations in the expanding coronal plasmas surrounding the capsule. The physics behind and implications of such observed fields are discussed.

• Research Organization: Univ. of Rochester, NY (United States). Lab. for Laser Energetics
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: FC52-08NA28302
• OSTI ID: 950790
• Report Number(s): DOE/NA-28302-880; PHPAEN; 2008-126; 1857
• Journal Information: Physics of Plasmas, Vol. 16, Issue 5; Conference: 50th Annual Meeting of the APS DIvision of Plasma Physics, Dallas, TX, 17-21 November 2008; ISSN 1070-664X
• Publisher: American Institute of Physics (AIP)
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY