Application of nanoparticle-containing laser plasmas for optical harmonic generation
Abstract
Nanoparticle-containing media can be used for efficient high-order harmonic generation of laser radiation. We present the results of studies of the harmonics generated in the laser-produced plasmas containing Cr2O3, Ag, Cu, and Au nanoparticles. These results are compared with the harmonics generated in the plasma produced on the surface of bulk targets at different delays between the subnanosecond heating prepulse and femtosecond pulse and different intensities of prepulse on the target surface. We discuss the harmonic enhancement, which was observed in the case of nanoparticle-containing plumes with regard to the monoparticle-containing plasmas. Morphological studies of plasma debris confirmed the presence and integrity of nanoparticles in the plumes.