Characterization of X-ray radiation from solid Sn target irradiated by femtosecond laser pulses in the presence of air plasma sparks

The emission of X-rays from solid tin targets irradiated by low-energy (few mJ) femtosecond laser pulses propagated through air plasma sparks is investigated. The aim is that to better understand the X-ray emission mechanism and to show the possibility to produce proper radiation for spectroscopic and imaging applications with a table-top laser system. The utilization of a controlled ultrashort prepulse is found necessary to optimize the conversion efficiency of laser energy into L α radiation. The optimum contrast between the main pulse and the controlled prepulse is found about 102. A correlation between the laser contrast value and the laser near-infrared spectra at the exit of the plasma spark is observed.