Background

Electron accelerators are used in a number of applications, from medical imaging by x-ray production, to gamma-ray production for medical applications. Integrating high-power lasers and electron beams can potentially improve the performance of electron accelerators, make compact x-ray sources, and potentially create new kinds of light. However, it is critical to have precise, stable spatiotemporal overlap between a relativistic electron beam and a high-power laser, especially at lower (sub-MHz) repetition rates for the electron beam. There is a need for independent spatial and temporal overall diagnostics in a compact form factor.

Invention Description

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new method and instrument to achieve precise spatio-temporal overap of a relativistic electron beam and a near-infrared (NIR) laser. This method uses micromachined holes in a cerium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Ce:YAG) screen, the two-photon fluorescence of the NIR laser to find the focus of the laser beam, and the pump-probe effect of an electron beam on Ce:YAG to determine temporal overlap of an electron and laser beam. This method can help to achieve precise spatial and temporal overlap from scratch within a rapid time frame.

Potential Applications:

• Electron accelerators for use in:
  • Medical imaging
  • Atomic-level research
  • Materials development
  • Industrial processing

Benefits and Advantages:

• Improved efficiency over gas phase alignment protocols for small sources
• Higher sensitivity for low charge and lower energy sources
• Compact design
• Rapid characterization of relativistic electron and laser beams