Maxwell-Bloch modeling of x-ray-laser-signal buildup in single- and double-pass configurations

Abstract

A theoretical model of soft x-ray lasers in hot laser-produced plasmas using a Maxwell-Bloch formalism has been developed and implemented in a numerical code (COLAX). First simulation results in the case of Ne-like Zn from solid targets are presented, including spontaneous emission generation and amplification, refraction, saturation, and coherence properties. A detailed simulation is presented of the effect on amplification and coherence of double-passing the radiation in the amplifying medium by using a half-cavity mirror.