Generation of focusing ion beams by magnetized electron sheath acceleration

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates through 3D simulations that applying a strong magnetic field in laser-driven sheath ion acceleration enhances ion focusing, energy, and species diversity, indicating potential for experimental realization.

Contribution

First 3D particle-in-cell simulations showing magnetic field effects in sheath-based ion acceleration, revealing enhanced focusing and energy in a multi-species ion source.

Findings

Magnetic field creates two distinct acceleration stages.

Enhanced ion energy and number with magnetic field.

3D effects are significant compared to 2D simulations.

Abstract

We present the first 3D particle-in-cell simulations of laser driven sheath-based ion acceleration in a kilotesla-level applied magnetic field. The applied magnetic field creates two distinct stages in the acceleration process associated with the time-evolving magnetization of the hot electron sheath and results in a focusing, magnetic field-directed ion source of multiple species with strongly enhanced energy and number. The benefits of adding the magnetic field are downplayed in 2D simulations, which strongly suggests the feasibility of observing magnetic field effects under experimentally relevant conditions.