Self-modulated laser-plasma acceleration in a H2 gas target, simulated in a spectral particle-in-cell algorithm: wakefield and electron bunch properties

Abstract

We evaluate the results of self-modulated, laser wakefield acceleration of electrons in homogeneous, 150-μm-thick hydrogen gas target, simulated using the spectral particle-in-cell algorithm FBPIC. Considering a single 2-TW laser pulse at 800-nm, which generates ionization and plasma displacement at relativistic intensities, we discuss the resultant wakefield phases, wave-breaking, and the ejected electron bunch properties: charge, length, divergence and energy, also comparing with experimental results.