Sub GV/cm terahertz radiations from relativistic laser-solid interaction via coherent transition radiation

Ding, W. J. and Sheng, Z. M. (2016) Sub GV/cm terahertz radiations from relativistic laser-solid interaction via coherent transition radiation. Physical Review E, 93 (6). 063204. ISSN 2470-0053 (https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.93.063204)

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Abstract

Broadband terahertz (THz) radiation with extremely high peak power, generated by the interaction of a femtosecond laser with a thin solid target, has been investigated via particle-in-cell simulations. The spatial (angular) and temporal profiles of the THz radiation reveal that it is caused by the coherent transition radiation emitted when laser-produced hot electrons pass through the front or rear surface of the target. Dependence of the THz radiation on laser and target parameters is studied; it is shown to have a strong correlation with hot electron production. The THz radiation conversion efficiency can be as high as a few times 10−3. This radiation is not only a potentially high power THz source, but may also be used as a unique diagnostic of hot electron generation and transport in relativistic laser-solid interactions.

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