This paper is devoted to investigations of laser energy transfer into solid targets with respect to the focusing lens focal point position relative to the solid target surface as obtained at the PALS laser facility. The third harmonic of the PALS laser beam with energy~90 J and pulse duration~250 ps (FWHM) was used for irradiation of two kinds of targets made of Cu: a slab and a 3.6 mm thick foil. The focal point of the beam was located either inside or in front of the target surface, and care was taken to ensure the same laser spot radii in both cases (250 mm). It was demonstrated that these two opposite focal point positions give rise to significantly different laser-plasma interactions: with either depression or maximum of the laser intensity distribution in the center of the beam, respectively. It was also verified that the focal point position inside of the target is favorable for plasma jets creation, whereas the opposite case is more effective for acceleration of flyers.
Abstract. Analysis of the damage caused by laser plasma accelerated fragments of metal target was performed. Measured as well as calculated parameters of craters and shrapnel found in BK7 glass blastshield are presented. Method applied for the measurement of parameters of craters is described. Potential damage of optical elements by the so-called striking cores (high-velocity stable objects arising due to collapse of cones or some other target parts toward their axes) that can be generated in IFE related experiments is evaluated.
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