Project New Orion entails a pulsed nuclear space propulsion system that utilizes photofission through the implementation of an ultra-intense laser. The historical origins derive from the endeavors of Project Orion, wh...Project New Orion entails a pulsed nuclear space propulsion system that utilizes photofission through the implementation of an ultra-intense laser. The historical origins derive from the endeavors of Project Orion, which utilized thermonuclear devices to impart a considerable velocity increment on the respective spacecraft. The shear magnitude of Project Orion significantly detracts from the likelihood of progressive research development testing and evaluation. Project New Orion incorporates a more feasible pathway for the progressive research development testing and evaluation of the pulsed nuclear space propulsion system. Photofission through the application of an ultra-intense laser enables a much more controllable and scalable nuclear yield. The energy source for the ultra-intense laser is derived from a first stage liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen chemical propulsion system. A portion of the thermal/kinetic energy of the rocket propulsive fluid is converted to electrical energy through a magneto-hydrodynamic generator with cryogenic propellant densification for facilitating the integral superconducting magnets. Fundamental analysis of Project New Orion demonstrates the capacity to impart a meaningful velocity increment through ultra-intense laser derived photofission on a small spacecraft.展开更多
A theoretical and numerical model of photon and electron–positron pair production in strong-field quantum electrodynamics（QED） is described. Two processes are contained in our QED theoretical model, one is photon e...A theoretical and numerical model of photon and electron–positron pair production in strong-field quantum electrodynamics（QED） is described. Two processes are contained in our QED theoretical model, one is photon emission in the interaction of ultra-intense laser with relativistic electron（or positron）, and the other is pair production by a gamma-ray photon interacting with the laser field.This model has been included in a PIC/MCC simulation code named BUMBLEBEE 1 D, which is used to simulate the laser plasma interaction. Using this code, the evolutions of electron–positron pair and gamma-ray photon production in ultra-intense laser interaction with aluminum foil target are simulated and analyzed. The simulation results revealed that more positrons are moved in the opposite direction to the incident direction of the laser under the charge separation field.展开更多
Antimatter has been generated in large quantities by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Titan laser. The Titan laser is an ultra-intense laser system on the order of approximately 1020W/cm2 with pulse duration...Antimatter has been generated in large quantities by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Titan laser. The Titan laser is an ultra-intense laser system on the order of approximately 1020W/cm2 with pulse durations of roughly 1ps. With the Titan laser incident on a high atomic number target, such as gold, antimatter on the scale of 2 × 1010 positrons are generated. Roughly 90% of the generated positrons are ejected anisotropic and aft to the respective target. The mechanisms for the laser-derived positron antimatter generation involve electron interaction with the nuclei based on bremsstrahlung photons that yield electron-positron pairs as a consequence of the Bethe-Heitler process, which predominates the Trident process. Given the constraints of the current and near future technology space, a pulsed space propulsion configuration is advocated for antimatter derived space propulsion, similar in concept to pulsed radioisotope propulsion. Antimatter is generated through an ultra-intense laser on the scale of a Titan laser incident on a gold target and annihilated in a closed chamber, representative of a combustion chamber. Upon reaching a temperature threshold, the closed chamber opens, producing a pulse of thrust. The implication of the pulsed space propulsion antimatter architecture is that the energy source for the antimatter propulsion system can be decoupled from the actual spacecraft. In contrast to conventional chemical propulsion systems, which require storage of its respective propulsive chemical potential energy, the proposed antimatter propulsion architecture may have the energy source at a disparate location from the spacecraft. The ultra-intense laser could convey its laser energy over a distance to the actual spacecraft equipped with the positron antimatter pulsed space propulsion system. Hydrogen is considered as the propulsive fluid, in light of its low molecular weight. Fundamental analysis is applied to preliminarily define the performance of the positron antimatter derived pulsed space propulsion system. The fundamental performance analysis of the antimatter pulsed space propulsion system successfully reveals the architecture is viable for further evaluation.展开更多
The fundamental performance analysis of an advanced concept ramjet propulsion system using antimatter is presented. Antimatter is generated by ultra-intense laser pulses incident on a gold target. The scientific found...The fundamental performance analysis of an advanced concept ramjet propulsion system using antimatter is presented. Antimatter is generated by ultra-intense laser pulses incident on a gold target. The scientific foundation for the generation of antimatter by an ultra-intense laser was established in the early 1970’s and later demonstrated at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory from 2008 to 2009. Antimatter on the scale of 2 × 1010 positrons were generated through a ~1 ps pulse from the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Titan laser that has an intensity of ~1020 W/cm2. The predominant mechanism is the Bethe-Heitler process, which involves high-energy bremsstrahlung photons as a result of electron-nuclei interaction. Propulsion involving lasers through chemical rather than non-chemical interaction has been previously advocated by Phipps. The major utilities of the ultra-intense laser derived antimatter ramjet are the capability to generate antimatter without a complex storage system and the ability to decouple the antimatter ramjet propulsion system from the energy source. For instance the ultra-intense laser and energy source could be terrestrial, while the ramjet could be mounted to a UAV as a propulsion system. With the extrapolation of current technologies, a sufficient number of pulses by ultra-intense lasers are eventually anticipated for the generation of antimatter to heat the propulsive flow of a ramjet. Fundamental performance analysis is provided based on an ideal ramjet derivation that is modified to address the proposed antimatter ramjet architecture.展开更多
Photofission enables a unique capability for the domain of non-chemical space propulsion. An ultra-intense laser enables the capacity to induce nuclear fission through the development of bre- msstrahlung photons. A fu...Photofission enables a unique capability for the domain of non-chemical space propulsion. An ultra-intense laser enables the capacity to induce nuclear fission through the development of bre- msstrahlung photons. A fundamental architecture and performance analysis of a photofission pulsed space propulsion system through the operation of an ultra-intense laser is presented. A historical perspective of previous conceptual nuclear fission propulsion systems is addressed. These applications use neutron derived nuclear fission;however, there is inherent complexity that has precluded further development. The background of photofission is detailed. The conceptual architecture of photofission pulsed space propulsion and fundamental performance parameters are established. The implications are the energy source and ultra-intense laser can be situated far remote from the propulsion system. Advances in supporting laser technologies are anticipated to increase the potential for photofission pulsed space propulsion. The fundamental performance analysis of the photofission pulsed space propulsion system indicates the architecture is feasible for further evaluation.展开更多
The interaction of micro-bubbles with ultra-intense laser pulses has been shown to generate ultra-high proton densities and correspondingly high electric fields.Weinvestigate the possibility of using such a combinatio...The interaction of micro-bubbles with ultra-intense laser pulses has been shown to generate ultra-high proton densities and correspondingly high electric fields.Weinvestigate the possibility of using such a combination to study the fundamental physical phenomenon of vacuum polarization.With current or near-future laser systems,measurement of vacuum polarization via the bending of gamma rays that pass near imploded microbubbles may be possible.Since it is independent of photon energy to within the leading-order solution of the Heisenberg–Euler Lagrangian and the geometric optics approximation,the corresponding index of refraction can dominate the indices of refraction due to other effects at sufficiently high photon energies.We consider the possibility of its application to a transient gamma-ray lens.展开更多
An electromagnetic solitary structure in attosecond regime is identified, costreaming with electron bunch. It is observed via nonlinear process of Self-Thomson backscattering of an ultra-intense laser from thin foil t...An electromagnetic solitary structure in attosecond regime is identified, costreaming with electron bunch. It is observed via nonlinear process of Self-Thomson backscattering of an ultra-intense laser from thin foil target. The process is termed as Self-Thomson Backscattering since the counter propagating electron sheets are generated by the drive laser itself. The radiation pressure acceleration model is considered for the interaction of a super-intense linearly polarized laser pulse with a thin foil in one-dimensional (1D) particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations.展开更多
A pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion through an ultra-intense laser incident on a gold target is conceptually presented through fundamental performance analysis...A pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion through an ultra-intense laser incident on a gold target is conceptually presented through fundamental performance analysis. As opposed to traditional strategies positron antimatter is considered rather than antiproton antimatter. Positron antimatter can be produced by an ultra- intense laser incident on a high atomic number target, such as gold. The ultra-intense laser production of positron antimatter mechanism greatly alleviates constraints, such as requirements for antimatter storage imperative for antiproton antimatter. Also the ultra-intense laser and associated energy source can be stationary or positioned remote while the pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion is in flight. Various mechanisms for antimatter catalyzed fusion are considered, for which the preferred mechanism is the antiproton hotspot ignition strategy. Fundamental performance analysis is subsequently applied to derive positron antimatter generation requirements and associated propulsion performance. The characteristics of the pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion through an ultra-intense laser incident on a gold target imply a promising non-chemical propulsion alternative for the transport of bulk cargo to support space missions.展开更多
A controllable strategy for eliciting nuclear fusion is presented through ultra-intenselaser derived positron generation by a conceptual first physics perspective. The capability to generate positrons on demand in a c...A controllable strategy for eliciting nuclear fusion is presented through ultra-intenselaser derived positron generation by a conceptual first physics perspective. The capability to generate positrons on demand in a controlled manner through an ultra-intense laser incident on a high atomic number target, such as gold, is the intrinsic core to the foundation of controllable nuclear fusion. Positron antimatter generated from the periphery of the fusion fuel pellet provides the basis for initiating the fusion reaction, which is regulated by controlling the operation of the ultra-intense laser. A dual pulsed Fast Ignition mechanism is selected to achieve the fusion reaction. Based on first physics performance analysis the controllable strategy for eliciting nuclear fusion through ultra-intenselaser derived positron generation offers a realizable means for achieving regulated nuclear fusion. A future perspective of the controllable fusion strategy addresses the opportunities and concerns of a pathway toward regulated nuclear fusion.展开更多
Utilizing the laser-driven Z-pinch e ect,we propose an approach for generating an ultrashort,intense Me V neutron source with femtosecond pulse duration.The self-generated magnetic field driven by a petawatt-class las...Utilizing the laser-driven Z-pinch e ect,we propose an approach for generating an ultrashort,intense Me V neutron source with femtosecond pulse duration.The self-generated magnetic field driven by a petawatt-class laser pulse compressed the deuterium in a single nanowire to more than 120 times its initial density,achieving an unprecedented particle number density of 10^(25)cm^(-3).Through full-dimensional kinetic simulations,including nuclear reactions,we found that these Z-pinches can generate high-intensity and short-duration neutron pulses,with the peak flux reaching 10^(27)cm^(-2)s^(-1).Such laser-driven neutron sources are beyond the capabilities of existing approaches and pave the way for groundbreaking applications in r-process nucleosynthesis studies and high-precision time-of-flight neutron data measurements.展开更多
Experimental and simulation data[Moreau et al.,Plasma Phys.Control.Fusion 62,014013(2019);Kaymak et al.,Phys.Rev.Lett.117,035004(2016)]indicate that self-generated magnetic fields play an important role in enhancing t...Experimental and simulation data[Moreau et al.,Plasma Phys.Control.Fusion 62,014013(2019);Kaymak et al.,Phys.Rev.Lett.117,035004(2016)]indicate that self-generated magnetic fields play an important role in enhancing the flux and energy of relativistic electrons accelerated by ultra-intense laser pulse irradiation with nanostructured arrays.A fully relativistic analytical model for the generation of the magnetic field based on electron magneto-hydrodynamic description is presented here.The analytical model shows that this self-generated magnetic field originates in the nonparallel density gradient and fast electron current at the interfaces of a nanolayered target.A general formula for the self-generated magnetic field is found,which closely agrees with the simulation scaling over the relevant intensity range.The result is beneficial to the experimental designs for the interaction of the laser pulse with the nanostructured arrays to improve laser-to-electron energy coupling and the quality of forward hot electrons.展开更多
A relativistic semi-classical theory (RSCT) of H-atom ionizationin ultra-intense laser (UIL) is proposed. A relativistic analytical expression for ionization probability of H-atom in its ground state is given. This ex...A relativistic semi-classical theory (RSCT) of H-atom ionizationin ultra-intense laser (UIL) is proposed. A relativistic analytical expression for ionization probability of H-atom in its ground state is given. This expression, compared with non-relativistic expression, clearly shows the effects of the magnet vector in the laser, the non-dipole approximation and the relativistic mass-energy relation on the ionization processes. At the same time, we show that under some conditions the relativistic expression reduces to the non-relativistic expression of non-dipole approximation. At last, some possible applications of the relativistic theory are briefly stated.展开更多
We demonstrate an ultra-broadband high temporal contrast infrared laser source based on cascaded optical parametric amplification,hollow-core fiber(HCF)and second harmonic generation processes.In this setup,the spectr...We demonstrate an ultra-broadband high temporal contrast infrared laser source based on cascaded optical parametric amplification,hollow-core fiber(HCF)and second harmonic generation processes.In this setup,the spectrum of an approximately 1.8μm laser pulse has near 1μm full bandwidth by employing an argon gas-filled HCF.Subsequently,after frequency doubling with cascaded crystals and dispersion compensation by a fused silica wedge pair,9.6 fs(~3cycles)and 150μJ pulses centered at 910 nm with full bandwidth of over 300 nm can be generated.The energy stability of the output laser pulse is excellent with 0.8%(root mean square)over 20 min,and the temporal contrast is>10^(12)at-10 ps before the main pulse.The excellent temporal and spatial characteristics and stability make this laser able to be used as a good seed source for ultra-intense and ultrafast laser systems.展开更多
We introduce a versatile high-repetition-rate solid tape target system suitable for relativistic laser-plasma driven secondary sources. We demonstrate the operation and stability monitoring based on a petawatt laser f...We introduce a versatile high-repetition-rate solid tape target system suitable for relativistic laser-plasma driven secondary sources. We demonstrate the operation and stability monitoring based on a petawatt laser focused at 1 Hz.Experiments were carried out at the VEGA-3 laser system of the Centro de Láseres Pulsados facility where results for different tape materials and thicknesses are presented. Experimental proton spectra were recorded by a Thomson parabola spectrometer and a time-of-flight detector. In addition, non-invasive detectors, such as a target charging monitor and ionization chamber detectors, were tested as metrology for the stability of the source. Degradation of the proton signal at high-repetition-rate operation was observed and it was solved by online optimization of the relative focus position of the target and laser beam parameters. We report the use of the tape target for bursts of 1000 shots at1 Hz with mean cut-off energies of about 10 MeV in optimized interaction conditions.展开更多
Compressing all the energy of a laser pulse into a spatiotemporal focal cube edged by the laser center wavelength will realize the highest intensity of an ultra-intense ultrashort laser,which is called theλ^(3) regim...Compressing all the energy of a laser pulse into a spatiotemporal focal cube edged by the laser center wavelength will realize the highest intensity of an ultra-intense ultrashort laser,which is called theλ^(3) regime or theλ^(3) laser.Herein,we introduced a rotational hyperbolic mirror—an important rotational conic section mirror with two foci—that is used as a secondary focusing mirror after a rotational parabolic mirror to reduce the focal spot size from several wavelengths to a single wavelength by significantly increasing the focusing angular aperture.Compared with the rotational ellipsoidal mirror,the first focal spot with a high intensity,as well as some unwanted strong-field effects,is avoided.The optimal focusing condition of this method is presented and the enhanced tight focusing for a femtosecond petawatt laser and theλ3 laser is numerically simulated,which can enhance the focused intensities of ultra-intense ultrashort lasers for laser physics.展开更多
A dual-phase synergistic enhancement method was adopted to strengthen the Al-Mn-Mg-Sc-Zr alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion(LPBF)by leveraging the unique advantages of Er and TiB_(2).Spherical powders of 0.5w...A dual-phase synergistic enhancement method was adopted to strengthen the Al-Mn-Mg-Sc-Zr alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion(LPBF)by leveraging the unique advantages of Er and TiB_(2).Spherical powders of 0.5wt%Er-1wt%TiB_(2)/Al-Mn-Mg-Sc-Zr nanocomposite were prepared using vacuum homogenization technique,and the density of samples prepared through the LPBF process reached 99.8%.The strengthening and toughening mechanisms of Er-TiB_(2)were investigated.The results show that Al_(3)Er diffraction peaks are detected by X-ray diffraction analysis,and texture strength decreases according to electron backscatter diffraction results.The added Er and TiB_(2)nano-reinforcing phases act as heterogeneous nucleation sites during the LPBF forming process,hindering grain growth and effectively refining the grains.After incorporating the Er-TiB_(2)dual-phase nano-reinforcing phases,the tensile strength and elongation at break of the LPBF-deposited samples reach 550 MPa and 18.7%,which are 13.4%and 26.4%higher than those of the matrix material,respectively.展开更多
To explore the formation mechanism of anisotropy in Ti-6Al-4V alloy fabricated by selective laser melting(SLM),the compressive mechanical properties,microhardness,microstructure,and crystallographic orientation of the...To explore the formation mechanism of anisotropy in Ti-6Al-4V alloy fabricated by selective laser melting(SLM),the compressive mechanical properties,microhardness,microstructure,and crystallographic orientation of the alloy across different planes were investigated.The anisotropy of SLM-fabricated Ti-6Al-4V alloys was analyzed,and the electron backscatter diffraction technique was used to investigate the influence of different grain types and orientations on the stress-strain distribution at various scales.Results reveal that in room-temperature compression tests at a strain rate of 10^(-3) s^(-1),both the compressive yield strength and microhardness vary along the deposition direction,indicating a certain degree of mechanical property anisotropy.The alloy exhibits a columnar microstructure;along the deposition direction,the grains appear equiaxed,and they have internal hexagonal close-packed(hcp)α/α'martensitic structure.α'phase has a preferential orientation approximately along the<0001>direction.Anisotropy arises from the high aspect ratio of columnar grains,along with the weak texture of the microstructure and low symmetry of the hcp crystal structure.展开更多
Conventional ignition methods are proving to be ineffective for low-sensitivity energetic materials,highlighting the need to investigate alternative ignition systems,such as laser-based techniques.Over the past decade...Conventional ignition methods are proving to be ineffective for low-sensitivity energetic materials,highlighting the need to investigate alternative ignition systems,such as laser-based techniques.Over the past decade,lasers have emerged as a promising solution,providing focused energy beams for controllable,efficient,and reliable ignition in the field of energetic materials.This study presents a comparative analysis of two state-of-the-art ignition approaches:direct laser ignition and laser-driven flyer ignition.Experiments were performed using a Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet(Nd:YAG)laser at different energy beam levels to systematically evaluate ignition onset.In the direct laser ignition test setup,the laser beam was applied directly to the energetic tested material,while laserdriven flyer ignition utilized 40 and 100μm aluminum foils,propelled at velocities ranging from 300 to 1250 m/s.Comparative analysis with the Lawrence and Trott model substantiated the velocity data and provided insight into the ignition mechanisms.Experimental results indicate that the ignition time for the laser-driven flyer method was significantly shorter,with the pyrotechnic composition achieving complete combustion faster compared to direct laser ignition.Moreover,precise ignition thresholds were determined for both methods,providing critical parameters for optimizing ignition systems in energetic materials.This work elucidates the advantages and limitations of each technique while advancing next-generation ignition technology,enhancing the reliability and safety of propulsion systems.展开更多
The effects of initial spin orientation on the final electron beam polarization in laser wakefield acceleration in a pre-polarized plasma are investigated theoretically and numerically.From the results of variation of...The effects of initial spin orientation on the final electron beam polarization in laser wakefield acceleration in a pre-polarized plasma are investigated theoretically and numerically.From the results of variation of the initial spin direction,the spin dynamics of the electron beam are found to depend on the self-injection mechanism.The effects of wakefields and laser fields are studied using test particle dynamics and particle-in-cell simulations based on the Thomas-Bargmann-Michel-Telegdi equation.Compared with transverse injection,longitudinal injection is found to be preferable for obtaining a highly polarized electron beam.展开更多
Tunable mid-infrared and far-infrared laser output was demonstrated based on BaGa_(4)Se_(7)crystals and an optical parametric oscillator(OPO).With a 1.06μm Nd:YAG laser and a double-pass singly resonant OPO cavity,a ...Tunable mid-infrared and far-infrared laser output was demonstrated based on BaGa_(4)Se_(7)crystals and an optical parametric oscillator(OPO).With a 1.06μm Nd:YAG laser and a double-pass singly resonant OPO cavity,a laser energy output of 2.2 mJ at 10μm was obtained.By tuning the angle and temperature,a tunable laser output covering the wavelength range from 6μm to 17μm was obtained with a tuning precision better than 3 nm.The corresponding optical-to-optical conversion efficiency was 2.8%,and the slope efficiency was 4.4%.The damage effect of the output laser on detectors was also investigated,and point damage to the detector occurred at an output energy of 16.4μJ.The laser system has the advantages of miniaturization,a wide tuning range,high energy and high tuning resolution.Its broadband laser characteristics make it highly valuable for applications in atmospheric detection,infrared spectroscopy and electro-optical countermeasures.展开更多
文摘Project New Orion entails a pulsed nuclear space propulsion system that utilizes photofission through the implementation of an ultra-intense laser. The historical origins derive from the endeavors of Project Orion, which utilized thermonuclear devices to impart a considerable velocity increment on the respective spacecraft. The shear magnitude of Project Orion significantly detracts from the likelihood of progressive research development testing and evaluation. Project New Orion incorporates a more feasible pathway for the progressive research development testing and evaluation of the pulsed nuclear space propulsion system. Photofission through the application of an ultra-intense laser enables a much more controllable and scalable nuclear yield. The energy source for the ultra-intense laser is derived from a first stage liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen chemical propulsion system. A portion of the thermal/kinetic energy of the rocket propulsive fluid is converted to electrical energy through a magneto-hydrodynamic generator with cryogenic propellant densification for facilitating the integral superconducting magnets. Fundamental analysis of Project New Orion demonstrates the capacity to impart a meaningful velocity increment through ultra-intense laser derived photofission on a small spacecraft.
基金supported by Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant Nos.ZYGX2016J065 and ZYGX2016J066)
文摘A theoretical and numerical model of photon and electron–positron pair production in strong-field quantum electrodynamics（QED） is described. Two processes are contained in our QED theoretical model, one is photon emission in the interaction of ultra-intense laser with relativistic electron（or positron）, and the other is pair production by a gamma-ray photon interacting with the laser field.This model has been included in a PIC/MCC simulation code named BUMBLEBEE 1 D, which is used to simulate the laser plasma interaction. Using this code, the evolutions of electron–positron pair and gamma-ray photon production in ultra-intense laser interaction with aluminum foil target are simulated and analyzed. The simulation results revealed that more positrons are moved in the opposite direction to the incident direction of the laser under the charge separation field.
文摘Antimatter has been generated in large quantities by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Titan laser. The Titan laser is an ultra-intense laser system on the order of approximately 1020W/cm2 with pulse durations of roughly 1ps. With the Titan laser incident on a high atomic number target, such as gold, antimatter on the scale of 2 × 1010 positrons are generated. Roughly 90% of the generated positrons are ejected anisotropic and aft to the respective target. The mechanisms for the laser-derived positron antimatter generation involve electron interaction with the nuclei based on bremsstrahlung photons that yield electron-positron pairs as a consequence of the Bethe-Heitler process, which predominates the Trident process. Given the constraints of the current and near future technology space, a pulsed space propulsion configuration is advocated for antimatter derived space propulsion, similar in concept to pulsed radioisotope propulsion. Antimatter is generated through an ultra-intense laser on the scale of a Titan laser incident on a gold target and annihilated in a closed chamber, representative of a combustion chamber. Upon reaching a temperature threshold, the closed chamber opens, producing a pulse of thrust. The implication of the pulsed space propulsion antimatter architecture is that the energy source for the antimatter propulsion system can be decoupled from the actual spacecraft. In contrast to conventional chemical propulsion systems, which require storage of its respective propulsive chemical potential energy, the proposed antimatter propulsion architecture may have the energy source at a disparate location from the spacecraft. The ultra-intense laser could convey its laser energy over a distance to the actual spacecraft equipped with the positron antimatter pulsed space propulsion system. Hydrogen is considered as the propulsive fluid, in light of its low molecular weight. Fundamental analysis is applied to preliminarily define the performance of the positron antimatter derived pulsed space propulsion system. The fundamental performance analysis of the antimatter pulsed space propulsion system successfully reveals the architecture is viable for further evaluation.
文摘The fundamental performance analysis of an advanced concept ramjet propulsion system using antimatter is presented. Antimatter is generated by ultra-intense laser pulses incident on a gold target. The scientific foundation for the generation of antimatter by an ultra-intense laser was established in the early 1970’s and later demonstrated at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory from 2008 to 2009. Antimatter on the scale of 2 × 1010 positrons were generated through a ~1 ps pulse from the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Titan laser that has an intensity of ~1020 W/cm2. The predominant mechanism is the Bethe-Heitler process, which involves high-energy bremsstrahlung photons as a result of electron-nuclei interaction. Propulsion involving lasers through chemical rather than non-chemical interaction has been previously advocated by Phipps. The major utilities of the ultra-intense laser derived antimatter ramjet are the capability to generate antimatter without a complex storage system and the ability to decouple the antimatter ramjet propulsion system from the energy source. For instance the ultra-intense laser and energy source could be terrestrial, while the ramjet could be mounted to a UAV as a propulsion system. With the extrapolation of current technologies, a sufficient number of pulses by ultra-intense lasers are eventually anticipated for the generation of antimatter to heat the propulsive flow of a ramjet. Fundamental performance analysis is provided based on an ideal ramjet derivation that is modified to address the proposed antimatter ramjet architecture.
文摘Photofission enables a unique capability for the domain of non-chemical space propulsion. An ultra-intense laser enables the capacity to induce nuclear fission through the development of bre- msstrahlung photons. A fundamental architecture and performance analysis of a photofission pulsed space propulsion system through the operation of an ultra-intense laser is presented. A historical perspective of previous conceptual nuclear fission propulsion systems is addressed. These applications use neutron derived nuclear fission;however, there is inherent complexity that has precluded further development. The background of photofission is detailed. The conceptual architecture of photofission pulsed space propulsion and fundamental performance parameters are established. The implications are the energy source and ultra-intense laser can be situated far remote from the propulsion system. Advances in supporting laser technologies are anticipated to increase the potential for photofission pulsed space propulsion. The fundamental performance analysis of the photofission pulsed space propulsion system indicates the architecture is feasible for further evaluation.
文摘The interaction of micro-bubbles with ultra-intense laser pulses has been shown to generate ultra-high proton densities and correspondingly high electric fields.Weinvestigate the possibility of using such a combination to study the fundamental physical phenomenon of vacuum polarization.With current or near-future laser systems,measurement of vacuum polarization via the bending of gamma rays that pass near imploded microbubbles may be possible.Since it is independent of photon energy to within the leading-order solution of the Heisenberg–Euler Lagrangian and the geometric optics approximation,the corresponding index of refraction can dominate the indices of refraction due to other effects at sufficiently high photon energies.We consider the possibility of its application to a transient gamma-ray lens.
文摘An electromagnetic solitary structure in attosecond regime is identified, costreaming with electron bunch. It is observed via nonlinear process of Self-Thomson backscattering of an ultra-intense laser from thin foil target. The process is termed as Self-Thomson Backscattering since the counter propagating electron sheets are generated by the drive laser itself. The radiation pressure acceleration model is considered for the interaction of a super-intense linearly polarized laser pulse with a thin foil in one-dimensional (1D) particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations.
文摘A pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion through an ultra-intense laser incident on a gold target is conceptually presented through fundamental performance analysis. As opposed to traditional strategies positron antimatter is considered rather than antiproton antimatter. Positron antimatter can be produced by an ultra- intense laser incident on a high atomic number target, such as gold. The ultra-intense laser production of positron antimatter mechanism greatly alleviates constraints, such as requirements for antimatter storage imperative for antiproton antimatter. Also the ultra-intense laser and associated energy source can be stationary or positioned remote while the pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion is in flight. Various mechanisms for antimatter catalyzed fusion are considered, for which the preferred mechanism is the antiproton hotspot ignition strategy. Fundamental performance analysis is subsequently applied to derive positron antimatter generation requirements and associated propulsion performance. The characteristics of the pulsed space propulsion system using position antimatter to induce Deuterium-Tritium fusion through an ultra-intense laser incident on a gold target imply a promising non-chemical propulsion alternative for the transport of bulk cargo to support space missions.
文摘A controllable strategy for eliciting nuclear fusion is presented through ultra-intenselaser derived positron generation by a conceptual first physics perspective. The capability to generate positrons on demand in a controlled manner through an ultra-intense laser incident on a high atomic number target, such as gold, is the intrinsic core to the foundation of controllable nuclear fusion. Positron antimatter generated from the periphery of the fusion fuel pellet provides the basis for initiating the fusion reaction, which is regulated by controlling the operation of the ultra-intense laser. A dual pulsed Fast Ignition mechanism is selected to achieve the fusion reaction. Based on first physics performance analysis the controllable strategy for eliciting nuclear fusion through ultra-intenselaser derived positron generation offers a realizable means for achieving regulated nuclear fusion. A future perspective of the controllable fusion strategy addresses the opportunities and concerns of a pathway toward regulated nuclear fusion.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Nos.2022YFA1602402,2022YFA1602404)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.12235003,12388102)。
文摘Utilizing the laser-driven Z-pinch e ect,we propose an approach for generating an ultrashort,intense Me V neutron source with femtosecond pulse duration.The self-generated magnetic field driven by a petawatt-class laser pulse compressed the deuterium in a single nanowire to more than 120 times its initial density,achieving an unprecedented particle number density of 10^(25)cm^(-3).Through full-dimensional kinetic simulations,including nuclear reactions,we found that these Z-pinches can generate high-intensity and short-duration neutron pulses,with the peak flux reaching 10^(27)cm^(-2)s^(-1).Such laser-driven neutron sources are beyond the capabilities of existing approaches and pave the way for groundbreaking applications in r-process nucleosynthesis studies and high-precision time-of-flight neutron data measurements.
基金This work was supported by the Science Challenge Project(No.TZ2016005)NSAF(No.U1730449)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.11575030 and 11975055)the National Key Programme for S&T Research and Development in China(No.2016YFA0401100).
文摘Experimental and simulation data[Moreau et al.,Plasma Phys.Control.Fusion 62,014013(2019);Kaymak et al.,Phys.Rev.Lett.117,035004(2016)]indicate that self-generated magnetic fields play an important role in enhancing the flux and energy of relativistic electrons accelerated by ultra-intense laser pulse irradiation with nanostructured arrays.A fully relativistic analytical model for the generation of the magnetic field based on electron magneto-hydrodynamic description is presented here.The analytical model shows that this self-generated magnetic field originates in the nonparallel density gradient and fast electron current at the interfaces of a nanolayered target.A general formula for the self-generated magnetic field is found,which closely agrees with the simulation scaling over the relevant intensity range.The result is beneficial to the experimental designs for the interaction of the laser pulse with the nanostructured arrays to improve laser-to-electron energy coupling and the quality of forward hot electrons.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 19784001)the National High-Tech ICF Committee of China and the Research Fund for Doctoral Program of Higher Education (Grant No. 98002713).
文摘A relativistic semi-classical theory (RSCT) of H-atom ionizationin ultra-intense laser (UIL) is proposed. A relativistic analytical expression for ionization probability of H-atom in its ground state is given. This expression, compared with non-relativistic expression, clearly shows the effects of the magnet vector in the laser, the non-dipole approximation and the relativistic mass-energy relation on the ionization processes. At the same time, we show that under some conditions the relativistic expression reduces to the non-relativistic expression of non-dipole approximation. At last, some possible applications of the relativistic theory are briefly stated.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2017YFE0123700)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB1603)+3 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(61925507,62075227,12004402,61635012)the Program of Shanghai Academic/Technology Research Leader(18XD1404200)the Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project(2017SHZDZX02)the Youth Innovation Promotion Association CAS(2020248)
文摘We demonstrate an ultra-broadband high temporal contrast infrared laser source based on cascaded optical parametric amplification,hollow-core fiber(HCF)and second harmonic generation processes.In this setup,the spectrum of an approximately 1.8μm laser pulse has near 1μm full bandwidth by employing an argon gas-filled HCF.Subsequently,after frequency doubling with cascaded crystals and dispersion compensation by a fused silica wedge pair,9.6 fs(~3cycles)and 150μJ pulses centered at 910 nm with full bandwidth of over 300 nm can be generated.The energy stability of the output laser pulse is excellent with 0.8%(root mean square)over 20 min,and the temporal contrast is>10^(12)at-10 ps before the main pulse.The excellent temporal and spatial characteristics and stability make this laser able to be used as a good seed source for ultra-intense and ultrafast laser systems.
基金funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme through the European IMPULSE project under grant agreement No.871161from LASERLAB-EUROPE V under grant agreement No.871124+1 种基金funding from the Ministerio de Ciencia,Innovación y Universidades in Spain,through ICTS Equipment grant No.EQC2018-005230-P,further from grant PID2021-125389OA-I00 funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/FEDER,UE‘ERDF A way of making Europe’,by the European Union and in addition from grants from the Junta de Castilla y León,No.CLP263P20 and No.CLP087U16
文摘We introduce a versatile high-repetition-rate solid tape target system suitable for relativistic laser-plasma driven secondary sources. We demonstrate the operation and stability monitoring based on a petawatt laser focused at 1 Hz.Experiments were carried out at the VEGA-3 laser system of the Centro de Láseres Pulsados facility where results for different tape materials and thicknesses are presented. Experimental proton spectra were recorded by a Thomson parabola spectrometer and a time-of-flight detector. In addition, non-invasive detectors, such as a target charging monitor and ionization chamber detectors, were tested as metrology for the stability of the source. Degradation of the proton signal at high-repetition-rate operation was observed and it was solved by online optimization of the relative focus position of the target and laser beam parameters. We report the use of the tape target for bursts of 1000 shots at1 Hz with mean cut-off energies of about 10 MeV in optimized interaction conditions.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2022YFA1604401)the Shanghai Science and Technology Committee Program(Grant Nos.22560780100 and 23560750200)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.61925507)。
文摘Compressing all the energy of a laser pulse into a spatiotemporal focal cube edged by the laser center wavelength will realize the highest intensity of an ultra-intense ultrashort laser,which is called theλ^(3) regime or theλ^(3) laser.Herein,we introduced a rotational hyperbolic mirror—an important rotational conic section mirror with two foci—that is used as a secondary focusing mirror after a rotational parabolic mirror to reduce the focal spot size from several wavelengths to a single wavelength by significantly increasing the focusing angular aperture.Compared with the rotational ellipsoidal mirror,the first focal spot with a high intensity,as well as some unwanted strong-field effects,is avoided.The optimal focusing condition of this method is presented and the enhanced tight focusing for a femtosecond petawatt laser and theλ3 laser is numerically simulated,which can enhance the focused intensities of ultra-intense ultrashort lasers for laser physics.
基金Shaanxi Province Qin Chuangyuan“Scientist+Engineer”Team Construction Project(2022KXJ-071)2022 Qin Chuangyuan Achievement Transformation Incubation Capacity Improvement Project(2022JH-ZHFHTS-0012)+8 种基金Shaanxi Province Key Research and Development Plan-“Two Chains”Integration Key Project-Qin Chuangyuan General Window Industrial Cluster Project(2023QCY-LL-02)Xixian New Area Science and Technology Plan(2022-YXYJ-003,2022-XXCY-010)2024 Scientific Research Project of Shaanxi National Defense Industry Vocational and Technical College(Gfy24-07)Shaanxi Vocational and Technical Education Association 2024 Vocational Education Teaching Reform Research Topic(2024SZX354)National Natural Science Foundation of China(U24A20115)2024 Shaanxi Provincial Education Department Service Local Special Scientific Research Program Project-Industrialization Cultivation Project(24JC005,24JC063)Shaanxi Province“14th Five-Year Plan”Education Science Plan,2024 Project(SGH24Y3181)National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFB4606400)Longmen Laboratory Frontier Exploration Topics Project(LMQYTSKT003)。
文摘A dual-phase synergistic enhancement method was adopted to strengthen the Al-Mn-Mg-Sc-Zr alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion(LPBF)by leveraging the unique advantages of Er and TiB_(2).Spherical powders of 0.5wt%Er-1wt%TiB_(2)/Al-Mn-Mg-Sc-Zr nanocomposite were prepared using vacuum homogenization technique,and the density of samples prepared through the LPBF process reached 99.8%.The strengthening and toughening mechanisms of Er-TiB_(2)were investigated.The results show that Al_(3)Er diffraction peaks are detected by X-ray diffraction analysis,and texture strength decreases according to electron backscatter diffraction results.The added Er and TiB_(2)nano-reinforcing phases act as heterogeneous nucleation sites during the LPBF forming process,hindering grain growth and effectively refining the grains.After incorporating the Er-TiB_(2)dual-phase nano-reinforcing phases,the tensile strength and elongation at break of the LPBF-deposited samples reach 550 MPa and 18.7%,which are 13.4%and 26.4%higher than those of the matrix material,respectively.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(51504138,51674118,52271177)Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(2023JJ50181)Supported by State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die&Mould Technology,Huazhong University of Science and Technology(P2024-022)。
文摘To explore the formation mechanism of anisotropy in Ti-6Al-4V alloy fabricated by selective laser melting(SLM),the compressive mechanical properties,microhardness,microstructure,and crystallographic orientation of the alloy across different planes were investigated.The anisotropy of SLM-fabricated Ti-6Al-4V alloys was analyzed,and the electron backscatter diffraction technique was used to investigate the influence of different grain types and orientations on the stress-strain distribution at various scales.Results reveal that in room-temperature compression tests at a strain rate of 10^(-3) s^(-1),both the compressive yield strength and microhardness vary along the deposition direction,indicating a certain degree of mechanical property anisotropy.The alloy exhibits a columnar microstructure;along the deposition direction,the grains appear equiaxed,and they have internal hexagonal close-packed(hcp)α/α'martensitic structure.α'phase has a preferential orientation approximately along the<0001>direction.Anisotropy arises from the high aspect ratio of columnar grains,along with the weak texture of the microstructure and low symmetry of the hcp crystal structure.
文摘Conventional ignition methods are proving to be ineffective for low-sensitivity energetic materials,highlighting the need to investigate alternative ignition systems,such as laser-based techniques.Over the past decade,lasers have emerged as a promising solution,providing focused energy beams for controllable,efficient,and reliable ignition in the field of energetic materials.This study presents a comparative analysis of two state-of-the-art ignition approaches:direct laser ignition and laser-driven flyer ignition.Experiments were performed using a Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet(Nd:YAG)laser at different energy beam levels to systematically evaluate ignition onset.In the direct laser ignition test setup,the laser beam was applied directly to the energetic tested material,while laserdriven flyer ignition utilized 40 and 100μm aluminum foils,propelled at velocities ranging from 300 to 1250 m/s.Comparative analysis with the Lawrence and Trott model substantiated the velocity data and provided insight into the ignition mechanisms.Experimental results indicate that the ignition time for the laser-driven flyer method was significantly shorter,with the pyrotechnic composition achieving complete combustion faster compared to direct laser ignition.Moreover,precise ignition thresholds were determined for both methods,providing critical parameters for optimizing ignition systems in energetic materials.This work elucidates the advantages and limitations of each technique while advancing next-generation ignition technology,enhancing the reliability and safety of propulsion systems.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.11804348,11775056,11975154,12225505,and 12405281)the Science Challenge(Project No.TZ2018005)+2 种基金supported by the Shanghai Pujiang Program(Grant No.23PJ1414600)the Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(Grant No.XDB0890203)supported by the Accelerator Technology Helmholtz Infrastructure consortium ATHENA.
文摘The effects of initial spin orientation on the final electron beam polarization in laser wakefield acceleration in a pre-polarized plasma are investigated theoretically and numerically.From the results of variation of the initial spin direction,the spin dynamics of the electron beam are found to depend on the self-injection mechanism.The effects of wakefields and laser fields are studied using test particle dynamics and particle-in-cell simulations based on the Thomas-Bargmann-Michel-Telegdi equation.Compared with transverse injection,longitudinal injection is found to be preferable for obtaining a highly polarized electron beam.
基金supported by Independent Innovation Science Foundation of National University of Defense Technology(Grant No.23-ZZCX-JDZ-44)。
文摘Tunable mid-infrared and far-infrared laser output was demonstrated based on BaGa_(4)Se_(7)crystals and an optical parametric oscillator(OPO).With a 1.06μm Nd:YAG laser and a double-pass singly resonant OPO cavity,a laser energy output of 2.2 mJ at 10μm was obtained.By tuning the angle and temperature,a tunable laser output covering the wavelength range from 6μm to 17μm was obtained with a tuning precision better than 3 nm.The corresponding optical-to-optical conversion efficiency was 2.8%,and the slope efficiency was 4.4%.The damage effect of the output laser on detectors was also investigated,and point damage to the detector occurred at an output energy of 16.4μJ.The laser system has the advantages of miniaturization,a wide tuning range,high energy and high tuning resolution.Its broadband laser characteristics make it highly valuable for applications in atmospheric detection,infrared spectroscopy and electro-optical countermeasures.
