Ion flow characteristics from laser-produced line plasmas

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Abstract
A Q-switched ruby laser, focused by means of a spherical-cylindrical lens combination, was used to irradiate massive planar carbon targets. Intensity on target was maintained at 4*109W cm-2as the line focus length-to-width aspect ratio was varied. Measurements made with charge-collecting Faraday cups indicate a collimation of both integrated ion number flux and total ion energy in a plane orthogonal to the laser line focus length, the extent of collimation being dependent upon the line focus aspect ratio. Results are compared with a simple axisymmetric potential fluid flow model.