| EPSRC Reference: |
GR/R31768/01 |
| Title: |
The Generation of Ultrahigh Power and Intensity using Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplification |
| Principal Investigator: |
Collier, Professor J |
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| Department: |
Central Laser Facility (CLF) |
| Organisation: |
STFC Laboratories (Grouped) |
| Scheme: |
Standard Research (Pre-FEC) |
| Starts: |
01 May 2001 |
Ends: |
30 June 2004 |
Value (£): |
372,409
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
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The combination of chirped pulse amplification (CPA) and optical parametric amplification (OPA) offers the exciting prospect of generating the worldhighest laser power and intensity and the world-shortest amplified pulse duration. A scheme based on this principle, referred to as optical parametric chirped pulse amplification (OPCPA), was recently proposed and demonstrated by the investigators. The OPCPA technique would effect a dramatic enhancement in the performance of many short pulse and high power lasers and has consequently attracted a great deal of international attention. We propose to continue our development of the technique to higher powers, and in view of Its potential for extending the scope of current and future CLF user programmes, it is important that its role in the long term development of the CI-Ps facilities is fully assessed.Computer simulations of the OPCPA scheme point to large factor increases in power and intensity for the Vulcan laser on whichever beam it is applied. However, prior to full scale implementation, it is essential to undertake a detailed study of the OPCPA technique as it is progressively scaled up, in order to establish a secure understanding of the physics of the process at the very high energies involved. The experiments proposed will use one of the Vulcan output beams to pump a three-stage OPCPA system and will focus on a range of physics and operational issues to establish confidence in the scaling and performance. The programme will be supported by development of the computer simulation code.
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Key Findings |
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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Impacts |
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| Description |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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