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Title: High Energy K(alpha) Radiography Using High-intensity, Short-pulse Lasers

Journal Article · · Physics of Plasmas, vol. 13, N/A, May 15, 2006, pp. 056309
OSTI ID:898595

We have performed experiments using Callisto, the Vulcan 100 TW and the Vulcan Petawatt high intensity lasers to understand the characteristics of high energy, K{alpha} x-ray sources and to implement workable radiography solutions at 20-100 keV. Our measurements show that the K{alpha} size from a simple foil target is larger than 60 {micro}m, far larger than the experiment resolution requirement. The total K{alpha} yield is independent of target thicknesses verifying that refluxing plays a major role in photon generation. Smaller radiating volumes emit brighter K{alpha} radiation. 1-D radiography experiments using small-edge-on foils resolved 10 {micro}m features with high contrast. We tested a variety of small volume 2-D point sources such as cones, wires, and embedded wires, measuring photon yields and comparing our measurements with predictions from hybrid-PIC LSP simulations. In addition to high-energy, high-resolution backlighters, future experiments will also need imaging detectors and diagnostic tools that are workable in the 20-100 keV energy range. An initial look at some of these detector issues is also presented.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
898595
Report Number(s):
UCRL-JRNL-217367; TRN: US0701685
Journal Information:
Physics of Plasmas, vol. 13, N/A, May 15, 2006, pp. 056309, Journal Name: Physics of Plasmas, vol. 13, N/A, May 15, 2006, pp. 056309
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English