Dominance of γ-γ electron-positron pair creation in a plasma driven by high-intensity lasers

Creation of electrons and positrons from light alone is a basic prediction of quantum electrodynamics, but yet to be observed. Our simulations show that the required conditions are achievable using a high-intensity two-beam laser facility and an advanced target design. Dual laser irradiation of a structured target produces high-density gamma rays that then create > 10(8) positrons at intensities of 2 x 10(22) Wcm(-2). The unique feature of this setup is that the pair creation is primarily driven by the linear Breit-Wheeler process (gamma gamma -> e(+)e(-)), which dominates over the nonlinear Breit-Wheeler and Bethe-Heitler processes. The favorable scaling with laser intensity of the linear process prompts reconsideration of its neglect in simulation studies and also permits positron jet formation at experimentally feasible intensities. Simulations show that the positrons, confined by a quasistatic plasma magnetic field, may be accelerated by the lasers to energies >200 MeV. Electron-positron pair generation from nonlinear quantum electrodynamics is predicted at high intensities that are, so far, beyond experimental capabilities. Here, simulations predict a high yield of positrons can be obtained from gamma-gamma photon collisions in the linear regime, using counter-propagating pulses and a microstructured target.

Automated summary

The study demonstrates the possibility of generating electrons and positrons from light alone using high-intensity two-beam laser facilities and advanced target designs. The simulations show that high-density gamma rays can create a large number of positrons, which can be accelerated to energies exceeding 200 MeV. This research opens up new possibilities for positron generation and acceleration in experimental settings.