Ultrafast broadband laser plasma X-ray source for femtosecond time-resolved EXAFS

Key issues for the generation of broadband thermal X-ray spectrum using femtosecond laser-produced plasmas are discussed. Experiments realized at high intensity (3 x 10(18) W/cm(2)) with INRS low and high repetition rate ultrafast laser systems show that intense broadband emission can be generated with a controlled spectrum suitable for backlighting and absorption experiments. The duration of this emission is a few times the laser pulse duration and high average X-ray power can be achieved. Sub-picosecond extended X-ray absorption fine structure experiments can now be designed with the suitable probing samples and geometry. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.