Laser Interaction with Matter at Extremes
The Laser Interaction with Matter at Extremes (LIME) group, established in 2016, currently comprises eight PhD researchers. The group's primary focus lies in intense laser–plasma interactions, including tabletop accelerators, laser-driven nuclear fusion, and proton beam therapy. Central to their work is the acceleration of high-energy ion beams—reaching up to several tens of mega-electron-volts per nucleon—through the interaction of ultra-short, intense laser pulses with solid targets. This is among the most dynamic areas of current research and has led to the generation of high-brightness, collimated, laminar ion beams with high energy cutoffs. These beams hold significant promise for developing compact ion accelerators, especially for medical applications.
Another key area of investigation is proton-boron (p-B) fusion, also known as aneutronic fusion. This reaction involves the fusion of protons with boron-11 nuclei to produce three alpha particles, without generating neutrons. The absence of neutron radiation makes p-B fusion a particularly attractive candidate for clean and safe power generation, as it avoids radioactive waste and other harmful byproducts. However, achieving and sustaining the extremely high temperatures and densities required for this reaction remains a major technical challenge.
The group is also actively exploring Laser Wakefield Acceleration (LWFA) to develop compact and cost-effective particle accelerators for medical and scientific use. By pushing the boundaries of laser–matter interaction, the LIME group aims to revolutionize the fields of particle acceleration, fusion energy, and laser-based medical technologies. Through cutting-edge research and innovation, the LIME group is dedicated to advancing fundamental understanding and real-world applications in laser plasma physics and high-energy density science.