Hot electron production and heating by hot electrons in fast ignitor research

Abstract

In an experimental study of the physics of fast ignition, the characteristics of the hot electron source at laser intensities up to 1020 W cm−2 have been measured and a diagnosis of the heating at depth by hot electrons has been initiated. Generation of hot electrons with more than 30% efficiency has been observed. Preliminary heating data suggest temperatures kT in the range 300–800 eV.