Amplification of ultra-short laser pulses via resonant backward Raman amplification in plasma

Abstract

In this paper, we have examined the possibility of using resonant backward Raman amplification (BRA) as an efficient mechanism in amplifying the low intensity ultra-short (≤fs) pulses using plasma as intermediate amplifying medium; such pulses are anticipated to get produced in the form of the secondary sources at ALPS (Attosecond Light Pulse Source) center of ELI (Extreme Light Infrastructure). In preliminary assessment of the scheme, the analytical expressions for the pump/seed laser pulses and plasma characteristic features are obtained which concisely describe the parameter regime of resonant BRA applicability in achieving significant amplification. The consistency of the scheme in the context of ELI-ALPS sources has been validated through particle in cell (PIC) simulations. The peak intensity of the amplified seed pulse predicted via simulation results is found in reasonable agreement with the analytical estimates. Utilizing these analytical expressions as a basis in perspective of ELI-ALPS parameter access, a specific example displaying the key plasma and laser parameters for amplifying weak seed pulse has been configured; the limitations and conceivable remedies in resonant BRA implementation have also been highlighted.