Multi-Stage Ionization Dynamics of Carbon Film Irradiated by High Power Lasers

Abstract

By using a particle code including ionization and atomic processes, we investigated the ionization dynamics of carbon film irradiated by an intense laser pulse. We found two types of ionization dynamics, namely, a fast time scaleconvective propagation of the ionization front with C⁴⁺ triggered by induced plasma waves, and a slow front with C⁵⁺ and C⁶⁺ triggered by heated electrons due to non-local thermal conduction. Thus, ionization dynamics in solids werefound to evolve through multiple stages.