Resonant second–harmonic generation in a magnetized plasma embedded with clusters

A magnetized plasma embedded with clusters offers an efficient way to second harmonic generation by intense short pulse laser. An X-mode laser exerts second harmonic pondermotive force on cluster electrons and produces a nonlinear current, driving the second harmonic radiation. In the process of hydrodynamic expansion of clusters, the electron plasma frequency passes through the surface Plasmon resonance, leading to resonant enhancement in the harmonic yield. The magnetic field shifts the Plasmon resonance. For typical parameters one may achieve power conversion efficiency of a few percent at normalized laser amplitude to (electron drift velocity of speed of light) of 0.1.