A bright laser-driven X-ray and particle source based on micro-structured silicon targets*

We report on the first use of micro-structured targets with highly light absorbing properties in high power laser-plasma science. Spectral and spatial investigation of reflectance, X-ray generation, electron and ion acceleration in the experiment demonstrate the performance of the novel, robust targets. Using high contrast lasers on micro-structured silicon targets we demonstrate a significant increase in electron, ion and X-ray yield compared to flat foil targets. The micro-structured surface decreases reflection losses from the interaction area significantly, while an increased brilliance in X-ray radiation is measured. In addition, while a boost in the particle flux is observed, the mean ion and electron temperatures are comparable between the two target types. Employing the strong performance of the source we present here, the impact of further investigations of micro-structured silicon targets to the field of versatile and powerful laser-driven particle and X-ray sources is motivated.