Subpicosecond KrF*-laser plasma interaction at intensities between 1014 and 1017 W/cm2

Abstract
The interaction of high‐intensity subpicosecond KrF*‐laser pulses with aluminium plasmas is investigated at intensities between 1014 and 1017 W/cm2. Using a one‐dimensional hydrocode, the laser energy absorption and time evolution of plasma parameters have been studied as a function of laser intensity, incidence angle, and polarization. Complementary particle‐in‐cell simulations have also been performed to check the collisionless absorption component carried by hot electrons and ions. These simulations are compared to previous experiments on laser pulse absorption and x‐ray generation.