A multi-shot target wheel assembly for high-repetition-rate, laser-driven proton acceleration

A multi-shot target assembly and automatic alignment procedure for laser–plasma proton acceleration at high repetition rate are introduced. The assembly is based on a multi-target rotating wheel capable of hosting more than 5000 targets, mounted on a 3D motorized stage to allow rapid replenishment a...

Full description

Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: J. Peñas, A. Bembibre, D. Cortina-Gil, L. Martín, A. Reija, C. Ruiz, M. Seimetz, A. Alejo, J. Benlliure
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Cambridge University Press 2024-01-01
Series:High Power Laser Science and Engineering
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S2095471924000136/type/journal_article
Description
Summary:A multi-shot target assembly and automatic alignment procedure for laser–plasma proton acceleration at high repetition rate are introduced. The assembly is based on a multi-target rotating wheel capable of hosting more than 5000 targets, mounted on a 3D motorized stage to allow rapid replenishment and alignment of the target material between laser irradiations. The automatic alignment procedure consists of a detailed mapping of the impact positions at the target surface prior to the irradiation that ensures stable operation of the target, which alongside the purpose-built design of the target wheel, enables operation at rates up to 10 Hz. Stable and continuous laser-driven proton acceleration at 10 Hz is demonstrated, with observed cut-off energy stability about 15%.
ISSN:2095-4719
2052-3289