Method of concentration of power in materials for x-ray amplification

Recent experimental and theoretical results indicate that a new technique for the controlled concentration of power in materials may be feasible. The power levels that are potentially achievable are sufficient for the generation of amplification of x-ray wavelengths in the kilovolt range. The method of power concentration involves the combination of (1) a new ultrahigh brightness subpicosecond laser technology, (2) multiphoton coupling to atoms and molecules, and (3) a new channeled mode of electromagnetic propagation. The energy scaling of this approach is the most important consideration, and it is shown that the control of the propagation is the key factor that enables high levels of amplification in the kilovolt regime to be achieved with a total excitation energy of ˜ 1J. © 1992, Optical Society of America.