Design and optimization of an axicon used for plasma diagnostic system in ICF drivers

Abstract

In this paper, a new focusing method adopting an axicon for the demand of the plasma measurements in inertial confinement fusion (ICF) drivers is presented. In order to improve the performance of this element, annular-aperture and Super-Guassian apodization are introduced to remove the on-axis oscillations. Meanwhile, the lateral width is optimized through choosing appropriate radius ratio of the inner ring to outer ring of the element. Furthermore, the feasibility is conformed by numerical evaluation of Fresnel diffraction integral .The results obtained are accordant with our designed intention. At last, as an example and for specific application, we designed an axicon, which has almost unchanged axial intensity, a focal depth more than 3mm, beam size smaller than 100μm and the maximal relative intensity of side lobe less than 2%. The performance of this element satisfies the requirements of plasma measurements in ICF drivers.