Continuous Laser-Driven α Source

Abstract

Laser-driven proton-boron fusion offers a path for generation of $\alpha$ particles on a compact scale. Conventional solid-target experiments, however, are fundamentally limited by target degradation and low shot-repetition capacity. Here, we demonstrate a continuous laser-driven $\alpha$ particle source utilizing target-normal sheath acceleration from a continuously replenishable ultrathin water-leaf jet target. The proton beam interacts with a downstream boron nitride converter, driving the ${}^{11}\text{B}(p,\alpha {)}^8\text{Be}$ reaction which yields three $\alpha$ particles. The measurement was repeated across $18,000$ consecutive shots at a rate of $10\text{Hz}$. The outgoing $\alpha$-particle yield and spectral fluence were measured and benchmarked against comprehensive particle-transport simulations. The numerical and experimental results reveal a pronounced flattening in the energy-differential $\alpha$-particle spectrum escaping from the converter, driven by depth-dependent reaction yield and stopping power effects. The sustained stable $\alpha$-particle production at high cumulative yields paves the way for applications in targeted particle therapy and laser-driven plasma-fusion research.