Laser Generated Magnetic Fields
Abstract
A sequence of laser pulses focussed onto the same spot on a target produces evaporation of target material and the formation of a crater with crater depth increasing from shot to shot. An experimental study of the crater- depth dependence of the magnetic fields generated by the laser produced plasmas has been performed. Repeated irradiation of an aluminum target with a laser pulse of 10 to the 12th power W/cm squared in a low background pressure of air at 10 to the (-5) power Torr produced magnetic fields as high as 1500 G and at a rate of .055 mm/shot excavated a hole nearly 4 mm deep and 2 mm wide at the target surface. Optical micrographs were taken of the target crater surface and of craters sectioned for examination by a scanning electron microscope. An independent determination of the plasma-electron temperature was obtained from the x-ray emission continuum of the plasma.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA030082
Entities
People
- Francis T. Williamson Jr.
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School