Optimization of single-stage x-ray laser coherence

Peter Amendt, Richard A. London, and Moshe Strauss
Phys. Rev. A 47, 4348 – Published 1 May 1993
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Abstract

The effect of smoothly varying transverse gain and refraction profiles on x-ray laser coherence is analyzed by modally expanding the laser electric field within the paraxial approximation. Comparison with a square transverse profile reveals that smoothly varying profiles generally lead to a greatly reduced number of guided modes and a consequent improvement in transverse coherence length. However, the refractive defocusing responsible for enhanced coherence can also significantly degrade the coherent power of plasma x-ray lasers based on amplified spontaneous emission. A critical value of the Fresnel number is indicated, below which the coherent power rapidly decreases as refractive defocusing is increased. A parameter study of transverse coherence for current or planned x-ray laser experiments is provided. Comparison with ray-optics scaling laws for transverse coherence length and coherent power is made. An optimal coherent energy output of nearly 0.5 mJ in 100 psec is determined in Ni-like Ta at a wavelength of 45 Å for a saturated single-stage x-ray laser. A favorable comparison with coherent energy requirements for holographic imaging of biological samples is indicated.

  • Received 5 June 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.47.4348

©1993 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Peter Amendt and Richard A. London

  • Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, University of California, P.O. Box 808, Livermore, California 94550

Moshe Strauss

  • Physics Department, Nuclear Research Centre–Negev, Beer Sheva 84190, Israel

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Vol. 47, Iss. 5 — May 1993

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