Polarization effects on magnetic fields generated via relativistic laser interactions with escargot targets

Abstract

This study highlights the effects of laser polarization on the magnetic field generated from escargot-shaped targets of varying dimensions via 2D particle-in-cell simulation. While s-polarized beams showed lower effectiveness due to electric field oscillations perpendicular to the plane of incidence, p-and circularly-polarized beams created steady-state magnetic fields. The p-polarized beam produced a more confined and intense field, contrasting with the circularly-polarized beam’s high but dispersed magnetic flux that is prone to leakage. Future research may focus on enhancing parameter scan resolution to determine an optimal gap-radius ratio and the use of elliptically-polarized laser.