Give

Graduate Exam Abstract


Mark Berrill

M.S. Final
June 28, 2006, 2:00 pm
Engineering D102
A Computer Model to Simulate Laser Created Plasmas Used for the Generation of Extreme Ultraviolet Lasers

Abstract: This thesis describes the development of a computer model of laser created plasmas used to generate Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lasers. These compact short wavelength lasers have substantial average powers and very high peak brightness, that make them of significant interest for many applications. A better understanding of the plasmas is necessary to advance the development of these lasers into more compact, efficient, and higher power sources of coherent EUV light.<br>
The plasma phenomena involved are complex, and require a detailed computer model of the coupled magneto-hydrodynamic and atomic physics processes to simulate their behavior. The computer model consists of hydrodynamic equations, coupled with an atomic model, radiation transport, and a ray propagation equation. The model predicts the spatio-temporal plasma variation of the parameters, including the electron density and temperature, and the ion populations, which are then used to compute the population inversion and the resulting EUV laser gain. A post processor ray trace code was developed to simulate the amplification of stimulated emission along the plasma column length including saturation effects. This allows for the direct calculation of the EUV laser output and its characteristics.


Adviser: Professor Jorge Rocca
Co-Adviser:
Non-ECE Member: n/a
Member 3: Professor Siu Au Lee, Physics
Addional Members:

Publications:


Program of Study: