Spect3d post-processing of LSP PIC simulations: application to short-pulse laser experiments

Summary form only given. In the fast ignition concept for inertial fusion energy, high-intensity short-pulse lasers (SPL) are used to create energetic particles (protons and relativistic electrons) that propagate to the fuel within a compressed capsule. The efficient transport of these energetic particles to the fuel is a key issue in fast ignition research. A combination of well-diagnosed experiments and well-tested simulation tools is needed in order to achieve a good understanding of energetic particle transport through dense plasmas, which is a prerequisite for fast ignition to become a viable option for inertial fusion. In this study, we utilize the SPECT3D imaging and spectral analysis package to post-process the results from LSP PIC simulations to generate images and spectra that can be directly compared with experimental measurements. In doing this, we have updated the multi-dimensional collisional-radiative SPECT3D package to include the effects of both relativistic electrons and energetic proton beams that are generated in SPL experiments. Energetic particle effects are included in computing non-LTE atomic level populations, emergent spectra, and images for the target plasma. This procedure allows us to study diagnostic signatures arising from energetic particles. We will present example results from simulations and comparisons with available experimental data