Z scaling of collisional Ne-like X-ray lasers using exploding foils: Refraction effects

Abstract

Neonlike ions have long been recognized as candidates for producing soft-X-ray lasers along 1s22s22p53p → 1s22s22p53s transitions. A series of experiments using exploding-foil targets driven by high-power lasers was performed at CEL-V and LLNL, and demonstrated amplified spontaneous emission in germanium, selenium, strontium, and molybdenum. We present here simulations of these experiments and discuss the importance of refraction effects on the propagation of the lasing X-rays and on the scaling of this scheme to shorter wavelengths.