X-ray emission from laser-irradiated gold targets with surface modulation

Abstract

X-ray emission spectra in the 5–22 nm range were recorded from planar and structured (meshlike groove surface) gold targets at 45° and 90° to the laser axis. A laser beam of 10-ns duration with E L ≤ 700 mJ and 1.06-μm wavelength was used for the experiment. Experimental results indicate an enhanced X-ray yield from a structured target as compared to a planar target under identical experimental conditions. Increased X-ray emission is attributed to plasma confinement and the possibility of conversion of kinetic energy into localized thermal energy of the plasma. Results are analyzed explicitly on the incident laser energy.