Researchers from the Institute of Accelerating Systems and Applications (IASA) and the University of Ioannina in Greece have developed a novel methodology for precise control of high-frequency ultrasounds in thin crystals, aiming to create tunable, narrowband, and directional gamma-ray sources. This research, published in the journal Applied Physics Letters, presents a significant advancement in the field of high-energy physics and nuclear technologies.
The team, led by Emmanouil Kaniolakis-Kaloudis, utilized a piezoelectric transducer to induce high-frequency harmonic waves within a silicon monocrystal. When ultra-relativistic charged particles traverse the crystal, they become trapped within the channels formed by the strong electric fields of the acoustically modulated lattice planes. This trapping causes the particles to undulate and emit gamma radiation. The precise characterization of the acoustic field within the crystal is crucial for determining the properties of the generated gamma rays.
To achieve this precision, the researchers employed fast laser refraction imaging. This technique images the acoustic waves by detecting the spatial redistribution of a laser beam’s optical intensity, which is influenced by the acoustic field. Additionally, the team developed a dedicated computational model to estimate the spatial distribution of pressure and lattice deformation within the crystal. This comprehensive methodology provides a framework for the development of novel gamma-ray sources in high-energy facilities.
The practical applications of this research for the energy sector are promising. Tunable, narrowband, and directional gamma-ray sources could revolutionize nuclear technologies, enabling more precise and efficient nuclear reactions. These advancements could lead to improved nuclear power generation, enhanced nuclear waste management, and innovative approaches to nuclear medicine. Furthermore, the ability to study high-energy physical phenomena with greater accuracy could pave the way for new discoveries and technologies in the energy sector.
In summary, the research conducted by Kaniolakis-Kaloudis and his team represents a significant step forward in the control of high-frequency ultrasounds in thin crystals. Their methodology offers a robust framework for the development of advanced gamma-ray sources, with potential applications that could transform the energy industry. The research was published in the journal Applied Physics Letters, providing a valuable resource for further exploration and development in this field.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.