The slow relaxation of non-equilibrium state in metal target excited by picosecond electron beam: interferometric and simulation studies

The experimental EXCITOR setup for obtaining the intense electron beams of picosecond duration is presented in this work. Cathodes of tungsten, graphite, copper and samarium of the same shape were used in these experiments. The interelectrode gap varied from 0.5 to 6mm. Interferometric technique to detect anode rear side displacement was used. The time evolution of the displacement and speed of the rear side of a copper anode of 0.1 and 3.0 mm thickness was experimentally obtained. Simulation of the space-time characteristics evolution of the anode material is presented. (paper)