Efficient Generation of Neutrons Based on Ultrashort Laser-driven Direct Acceleration in Microwire-Array Targets

Abstract

We report on an experimental demonstration of efficient neutron generation based on direct laser acceleration in microwire-array targets irradiated by ultrashort (tens of femtoseconds) laser pulses. The optimal array period was identified, at which the maximum proton energy and the number of protons with energies exceeding $1~\mathrm{MeV}$ were significantly increased. Using a $1~\mathrm{PW}$, $\sim25~\mathrm{fs}$ laser at a moderate intensity of $\sim10^{20}~\mathrm{W/cm^2}$, a high neutron yield of up to $(8.33\pm0.84)\times10^{6}~\mathrm{n/sr/J}$ was detected from the LiD converter via $^7\mathrm{Li}(p,n)$ and $\mathrm{D}(p,n+p)$ nuclear reactions. Self-consistent integrated simulations reproduced the experimental results and predicted that with a Be converter, a forward pulsed neutron source with an unprecedented yield per joule of $3.67\times10^{7}~\mathrm{n/sr/J}$ can be obtained under identical laser conditions. This type of neutron source is favorable for applications that require a high repetition rate utilizing compact and economical laser systems.