Experimental methods for investigation of photo-field fusion concept

Summary form only given. The paper describes the advancement of the diagnostic methods widely used in nuclear physics for studies on atomic and nuclear processes inherent in laser-produced plasmas. Under investigation is plasma generated by action on solid-state target by radiation from picosecond terawatt laser having intensity of 10 to the power 16-10 to the power 18 Watt per centimeter squared. Peculiarities of such plasmas have called for modernization of conventional methods for investigation of atomic and nuclear processes. Particularly, the paper outlines the development of methods for monitoring hard X-rays, gamma quanta, thermal velocity and fast neutrons generated in these dense plasmas. Diagnostic methods imply use of scintillation counters based on stilbene crystal, scintillation gamma-spectrometer based on NaI(Tl) crystal, proportional counters based on He III, as well as a camera obscura equipped with a filter and a set of diaphragms. Results of the experimental investigation on generation of gamma-quanta and neutron in the dense plasmas are also presented. The experimental methods described in the paper provide a basis for studies on a wide spectrum of atomic, nuclear and plasma processes going in the laser-produced dense plasmas, particularly, for investigation of the photo-field fusion concept.