Numerical investigation of non-linear inverse Compton scattering in double-layer targets

Non-linear inverse Compton scattering (NICS) is of significance in laser-plasma physics and for application-relevant laser-driven photon sources. Given this interest, we investigated synchrotron-like emission a promising configuration achieved when an ultra-intense laser pulse interacts with double-layer target (DLT). Numerical simulations two-dimensional particle-in-cell codes analytical estimates are used purpose. The properties NICS shown to be governed by the processes characterizing interaction near-critical solid layers composing DLT. In particular, electron acceleration, focusing low-density layer, reflection on layer determine radiated power, emitted spectrum, angular photons. Analytical estimates, supported simulations, show that quantum effects relevant at intensities as small ∼1021 W/cm 2 Target parameters affect competition bremsstrahlung conversion efficiency average energy Therefore, DLT could exploited tune enhance experiments future applications.