Single-shot laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) measurements of multi-type free-standing ultrathin foils were performed in vacuum environment for 800 nm laser pulses with durations τ ranging from 50 fs to 200 ps. Results show that the laser damage threshold fluences (DTFs) of the ultrathin foils are significantly lower than those of corresponding bulk materials. Wide band gap dielectric targets such as SiN and formvar have larger DTFs than those of semiconductive and conductive targets by 1-3 orders of magnitude depending on the pulse duration. The damage mechanisms for different types of targets are studied. Based on the measurement, the constrain of the LIDTs on the laser contrast is discussed.
Wang Dahui, Shou Yinren, Wang Pengjie, Liu Jianbo, Mei Zhusong, Cao Zhengxuan, Zhang Jianmin, Yang Pengling, Feng Guobin, Chen Shiyou, Zhao YIng, Schreiber Joerg, Ma Wenjun. Laser-induced damage thresholds of ultrathin targets and their constrain on laser contrast in laser-driven ion acceleration experiments[J]. High Power Laser Science and Engineering, , (): .
