Features

• Describes the production of inertial fusion energy, which could be the future solution to the energy crisis
• Explains how x-ray lasers are used in the biological sciences and solid-state physics
• Explores how ultrahigh power lasers are used in nuclear and elementary particle physics
• Discusses the use of femtosecond laser pulses in materials processing
• Examines nanoparticles in the context of laser–plasma interactions

Summary

Recent advances in the development of lasers with more energy, power, and brightness have opened up new possibilities for exciting applications. Applications of Laser–Plasma Interactions reviews the current status of high power laser applications.

The book first explores the science and technology behind the ignition and burn of imploded fusion fuel, before describing novel particle accelerators. It then focuses on applications of high power x-ray sources and the development of x-ray lasers. The book also discusses how ultrahigh power lasers are used in nuclear and elementary particle physics applications as well as how the high power density of laser–plasma interactions is used to study matter under extreme conditions. The final chapters deal with femtosecond lasers, presenting applications in materials processing and nanoparticles.

With contributions from a distinguished team of researchers, this work illustrates the many applications of high power lasers, highlighting their important roles in energy, biology, nanotechnology, and more.