Speaker
Description
Recent advancements in laser technology now allow researchers to generate modestly intense vortex (Laguerre–Gaussian) beams, raising important questions about their interactions with plasma targets. Application relevant studies have already been performed and enhanced particle beam collimation has been demonstrated. However, fundamental studies pertaining to electron dynamics and heating have so far been inadequate. In this study, we utilize fully three-dimensional PIC simulations to analyse, identify, and understand the distinctive features in the interaction of vortex beams with planar and structured plasma targets. A comparison is made with Gaussian beams vis-a-vis electron dynamics and temperature profiles. Distinct bunching behaviour of electrons on the target front unlike previous literature is identified, along with a triple-temperature profile unique to the Laguerre-Gaussian modes. Finally, orbital angular momentum (OAM) transfer to the plasma electrons due to these vortex beams is studied in targets of multiple number density ranges.