Intense Laser Sources of Gamma Radiation and Neutrons Based on High-Current Beams of Super-Ponderomotive Electrons

Abstract

Intense beams of photons and neutrons in the MeV energy range are effective tools in many areas of research, such as diagnostics of matter in extreme states, nuclear physics and materials science, as well as in medical and biophysical applications. A concept is presented for creating efficient sources of γ-radiation and neutrons, based on the generation of relativistic electrons in the direct laser acceleration mode during the interaction between a laser pulse with an intensity of 1019 W/cm2 and extended plasma with a density close to critical.