GCLT: a versatile high power laser facility for high-energy-density (HED) physics applications

Over the past decades, high power lasers have been extensively used to generate extreme dynamic compression for high-energy-density (HED) physics applications. For this reason, CEA has developed a new laser shock facility called GCLT (French acronyme for portable laser shock driver), dedicated to the study of materials response to high amplitude and short duration compressions. This laser system can generate pulses with a duration ranging between 4 and 100 ns with a maximum energy up to 150 J at 1053 nm. The temporal profile of the pulse can be adjusted at will, by steps of 125 ps, thus allowing to generate many different kinds of compressions (single or double shocks, shock-full release-reshock, ramp compressions, ...). Homogeneous spatial distribution of energy for focal spot diameter comprised between 100 µm and 5 mm can be achieved by means of various random phase plates. The laser is portable, which allows to both perform experiments on hazardous materials at spectific installations, or to benefit from other diagnostics or sources which are not available at CEA. In this work, we will present you the current capabilities of the facility, an overview of the avaibable diagnostics, and some examples of experiments performed on various themes and installations.