Simulation of a picosecond laser ablation plasma

Date Published
06/2000
Publication Type
Journal Article
Authors
DOI
10.1063/1.126651
LBL Report Number
LBNL-45578
Abstract

A theoretical model has been developed to simulate plasma formation and evolution during the early stage of picosecond laser ablation of solids. Surface electron emission was implemented as one boundary condition for plasma development above the target. The simulation results indicate that a plasma forms, with electron density on the order of 1020cm-3, during the picosecond laser pulse. Laser induced gas breakdown assisted by electron emission from the target was found to be the origin of the plasma. In agreement with experimental measurements, longitudinal movement of the electrons inside the plasma was suppressed after the laser pulse. The suppression of the plasma can be attributed to the development of a strong electric field above the target.

Journal
Applied Physics Letters
Volume
76
Year of Publication
2000
Issue
23
Pagination
3370-3372
Short Title
Appl. Phys. Lett.
Keywords
Organizations
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