Generation of disc-like plasma from laser-matter interaction in the presence of a strong external magnetic field. (13th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ivanov, V V; Maximov, A V; Betti, R; Wiewior, P P; Hakel, P; Sherrill, M E
• Is Part Of: Plasma physics and controlled fusion. Volume 59:Number 8(2017:Aug.)
• Publication Date: 2017-06-13
• Subjects: laser matter interaction -- magnetic fields -- plasma disc; Plasma (Ionized gases) -- Periodicals; Controlled fusion -- Periodicals; 530.44
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6587/aa7358
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0741-3335

Abstract

Abstract: Dynamics of laser produced plasma in a strong magnetic field was studied using a 1 MA pulsed power generator coupled to an intense, high-energy laser. A 2–2.5 MG magnetic field was generated on the surface of a rod load 0.8–1.2 mm in diameter. A sub-nanosecond laser pulse with intensity of 3 × 10 15 W cm −2 was focused on the rod load surface. Side-on laser diagnostics showed the generation of two collimated jets 1–3 mm long on the front and rear sides of the load. End-on laser diagnostics reveal that the laser produced plasma in the MG magnetic field takes the form of a thin disc as the plasma propagates along the magnetic field lines. The disc-like plasma expands radially across the magnetic field with a velocity of 250 km s −1 . An electron temperature of 400 eV was measured in the laser-produced plasma on the rod load.