Kinetic modeling of laser absorption in foams

Laser interaction with foam targets is of interest for applications in the inertial confinement fusion studies and for the creation of secondary sources of energetic particles and radiation. Numerical modeling of such an interaction presents difficulties related to the sub-wavelength dimension of solid elements and high density contrast. Here, we present an analysis of laser interaction with thin wires based on the Mie theory, which demonstrates an enhanced laser absorption due to plasma resonance, and confirm this conclusion with detailed kinetic simulations. Numerical simulations also provide the characteristic time of the solid element transformation in a plasma and the energy partition between electrons and ions.

Automated summary

This study investigates the interaction between lasers and foam targets, which is important for inertial confinement fusion studies and the creation of secondary sources of energetic particles and radiation. By applying the Mie theory, the analysis shows enhanced laser absorption due to plasma resonance when lasers interact with thin wires, and this conclusion is confirmed by detailed kinetic simulations. Numerical simulations also determine the characteristic time for the transformation of solid elements into plasma and the energy partition between electrons and ions.