Development of an application-oriented laser-driven proton source: Optimization and stabilization through artificial intelligence

• Applicants: Sonja Gerlach, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Jörg Schreiber
• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 558546291

Through laser-driven proton acceleration, nowadays high-energy particle bunches can be generated. However, the lack of stability in beam parameters and low repetition rates hinder the efficient optimization of the source and its use. In this project, we aim to overcome these challenges with a new experimental setup combined with intelligent methods, and thus aim to bridge the gap between the current state of research and potential applications. Building upon years of development in our laboratory, high repetition rates become possible through a liquid film-based target system and acoustic particle detectors. The development of a novel laser diagnostics system located in the experimental area will allow us to determine important laser parameters for each shot. By integrating the components into a unified software infrastructure, we can use artificial intelligence to stabilize and optimize the laser-driven ion source. The goal of the project is to create a proton source that is optimized for applications, producing focused particle bunches at a repetition rate of 1 Hz, with adjustable energies up to 30 MeV and a particle number fluctuation reduced to below 30%.

• DFG Programme: New Instrumentation for Research