Harmonic generation in laser-produced plasmas containing atoms, ions and clusters: a review

Abstract

A review of studies of the high-order harmonic generation of laser radiation in laser-produced plasma revealed recent developments in this field. These include new approaches in application of two-colour pumps, generation of extremely broadened harmonics, further developments in harmonic generation in clusters (fullerenes, carbon nanotubes), destructive interference of harmonics from different emitters, new approaches in resonance-induced enhancement of harmonics, applications of high pulse repetition rate lasers for the enhancement of average power of generating harmonics and observation of quantum path signatures, etc. We show that this method of frequency conversion of laser radiation towards the extreme ultraviolet range became mature during multiple sets of studies carried out in many laboratories worldwide and demonstrated new approaches in the generation of strong coherent short-wavelength radiation for various applications.

Keywords:

• harmonic generation
• laser plasma

Acknowledgements

The author thanks H. Kuroda, P.D. Gupta, P.A. Naik, T. Ozaki and J.P. Marangos for fruitful discussions and support during these studies. This work was partially supported by a Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowship within the 7th European Community Framework Programme.