Super-intense quasi-neutral proton beams interacting with plasma: A numerical investigation

Due to the unique properties of the recently discovered sheath laser-ion source the investigation of super-intense quasi-neutral ion beams interacting with plasma has become of substantial interest. Novel experiments in parameter regimes that bear relevance for future ion based Fast Ignition concepts can be envisioned. Simulations in two spatial dimensions of quasi-neutral proton beams interacting with a coronal plasma are presented. Beam-plasma instabilities are found. Ion beam instabilities, and ion beam energy loss in plasma will be discussed. The implications of the results for a proton based Fast Ignition concept are addressed. (author)