Unique capabilities of an intense heavy ion beam as a tool for equation-of-state studies

Intense heavy ion beams open new possibilities in high-energy-density matter research. Due to the unique feature of the energy deposition process of heavy ions in dense matter (volume character of heating) it is possible to generate high entropy states in matter without the necessity of shock compression. Previously, such high entropy states could only be achieved by using the most powerful shock wave generators, like nuclear explosions or powerful lasers. In this paper this novel technique of heavy ion heating and expansion is proposed to explore new fascinating regions of the phase diagram, including the liquid phase, the evaporation region with the critical point, and strongly coupled plasmas. (C) 2002 American Institute of Physics.