Project Details
Projekt
Ultra-Bright Laser-Driven MeV Particle and Radiation Sources via Direct Laser Acceleration of Electrons in Foams for Multidisciplinary Research
Subject Area
Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
Term
since 2026
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 566399956
The direct laser acceleration (DLA) of electrons during the interaction of relativistic laser pulses with low-density foams leads to the generation of high-current, well-collimated beams of superponderomotive electrons, which can be used for multi-disciplinary research. Using low-density foams at the PHELIX facility at GSI Darmstadt, our groups have demonstrated the generation of beams of relativistic electrons, betatron radiation, MeV bremsstrahlung and neutrons with record-breaking conversion efficiencies. Our results are now world-leading and pave the way for using low-density foams at kJ PW-class laser facilities in the context of high-energy density (HED) and inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research, as well as in laboratory nuclear astrophysics with lasers. The aim of the current project entitled "Ultra-bright laser-driven MeV particle and radiation sources using direct laser acceleration of electrons in foams for multidisciplinary research" is to extend our approach in two directions. The first is to establish the DLA platform with foams in laser systems with a large and imperfect focal spot and near relativistic intensity that support ICF, such as the ARC (Advanced Radiographic Capabilities) laser at NIF (National Ignition Facility). Based on our results obtained at PHELIX, an experiment with foams on NIF as part of the Discovery Science program is dedicated to the year 2025. The second is the application of foams at ultra-high laser intensities (e.g. ELI-NP) for the effective production of isotopes and neutrons via nuclear reactions triggered by MeV gammas and protons. We are confident that this project will enable a breakthrough in the efficiency of laser-driven particle and radiation sources in a wide range of laser parameters.
DFG Programme
Research Grants
