Researchers at The University of Osaka have developed a new method called micronozzle acceleration (MNA) to produce high-energy proton beams reaching giga-electron-volt (GeV) scales in compact setups.
Micronozzle acceleration involves using microfabricated targets with nozzle-shaped cavities to channel plasma flow and create a sustained electric field for proton acceleration.
This approach overcomes energy limitations in traditional laser-driven proton acceleration techniques, pushing proton energies beyond 1 GeV.
The simulations performed on the SQUID supercomputer at The University of Osaka demonstrated the stability and high quality of the proton beams generated by MNA.
The scalability of the MNA mechanism has implications beyond high-energy physics, including applications in fusion energy and medical physics like proton therapy for cancer treatment.
The ability to generate high-energy proton beams using micronozzle targets could facilitate laboratory astrophysics experiments and advance our understanding of cosmic phenomena.
MNA leverages laser-plasma interaction theory and plasma electrodynamics to create intense quasi-static electric fields for proton acceleration.
The collaboration between microfabrication, laser physics, and computational simulation in MNA research showcases a trend towards miniaturization without compromising beam quality.
Future research directions involve experimental validation of micronozzle targets, optimizing acceleration efficiency, and exploring integration strategies for various applications.
MNA represents a significant advancement in particle acceleration research, offering transformative societal benefits in fields ranging from energy sustainability to advanced cancer therapies.