Dielectric laser acceleration and focusing using short-pulse lasers with an arbitrary laser phase distribution

Abstract

Femtosecond laser pulses can be used to achieve desired GV m−1 electron accelerating gradients in dielectric laser accelerator structures. Extending this interaction over a distance exceeding 1 mm may require the use of focusing structures. Using simulations, we motivate a new dielectric laser focusing structure driven by short laser pulses. In contrast to previous dielectric laser accelerator microstructures, the surface of this structure has three heights. Using simulation, we show that this structure has a peak focusing field gradient equivalent to 2.9 MT m−1.