Three-dimensional relativistic particle-in-cell hybrid code based on an exponential integrator

TL;DR

This paper introduces a 3D relativistic hybrid plasma simulation code that combines particle-in-cell and hydrodynamic models, utilizing an exponential integrator for efficient large time step simulations of plasmas with varying densities.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel 3D relativistic hybrid plasma code using an exponential integrator, enabling large time step simulations across arbitrary plasma densities.

Findings

Accurately reproduces plasma dispersion relations.

Maintains correct spatial scales like plasma skin depth.

Allows large time steps for high-density plasma simulations.

Abstract

In this paper we present a new three dimensional (3D) full electromagnetic relativistic hybrid plasma code H-VLPL (hybrid virtual laser plasma laboratory). The full kinetic particle-in-cell (PIC) method is used to simulate low density hot plasmas while the hydrodynamic model applies to the high density cold background plasma. To simulate the linear electromagnetic response of the high density plasma, we use a newly developed form of an exponential integrator method. It allows us to simulate plasmas of arbitrary densities using large time steps. The model reproduces the plasma dispersion and gives correct spatial scales like the plasma skin depth even for large grid cell sizes. We test the hybrid model validity by applying it to some physical examples.