Nonlinear Breit–Wheeler pair creation with bremsstrahlung γ rays. (22nd March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blackburn, T G; Marklund, M
• Is Part Of: Plasma physics and controlled fusion. Volume 60:Number 5(2018:May)
• Publication Date: 2018-03-22
• Subjects: positron production -- colliding beams -- strong-field QED; 41.75.Ht -- 52.38.Ph -- 52.65.-y; Plasma (Ionized gases) -- Periodicals; Controlled fusion -- Periodicals; 530.44
• DOI: 10.1088/1361-6587/aab3b4
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0741-3335

Abstract

Abstract: Electron–positron pairs are produced through the Breit–Wheeler process when energetic photons traverse electromagnetic fields of sufficient strength. Here we consider a possible experimental geometry for observation of pair creation in the highly nonlinear regime, in which bremsstrahlung of an ultrarelativistic electron beam in a high- Z target is used to produce γ rays that collide with a counter-propagating laser pulse. We show how the target thickness may be chosen to optimize the yield of Breit–Wheeler positrons, and verify our analytical predictions with simulations of the cascade in the material and in the laser pulse. The electron beam energy and laser intensity required are well within the capability of today's high-intensity laser facilities.