Abstract
Using the multi-dimensional Particle-in-Cell (PIC) code VLPL [1], we investigate interaction of relativisticly strong laser pulses with under- and overdense plasmas. We study acceleration of background electrons to multi-MeV energies, generation of 100 MG magnetic fields, and dynamics of ion channel boring. We show that the magnetic fields strongly influence transport of the accelerated relativistic electrons, which, in turn, modify the plasma refraction index and contribute to guiding of the laser pulse. We present spectra of the accelerated electrons and ions and the laser energy conversion efficiency. This physics is crucial for the Fast Ignitor concept in Inertial Confinement Fusion.
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