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Longitudinal dynamics of extreme plasma-based compression of electron beams

Kelly K. Swanson1,*, Thamine Dalichaouch2, Agostino Marinelli1, Brendan O’Shea1, Mark J. Hogan1, and Claudio Emma1

  • *Contact author: kswan@slac.stanford.edu
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Phys. Rev. Accel. Beams 29, 052802 – Published 29 May, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/ggd1-pt1y

Abstract

High-brightness, ultrahigh peak current electron beams are of significant interest to applications including high-energy colliders, advanced accelerator concepts, strong field quantum electrodynamics, and laboratory astrophysics. Despite such interest, compressing electron beams to attosecond pulse durations and mega-ampere peak currents while preserving beam quality remains a challenge. In this work, we examine the feasibility and challenges involved in generating such extreme beams using plasma-based compression. Using particle-in-cell and particle tracking simulations, we demonstrate that the large electric field gradients in plasma wakefields enable orders of magnitude higher compression than what can be achieved with conventional radiofrequency-based compressors. By adding energy chirps greater than 500  MeV/μm, bunch durations approaching 10 nm and peak currents approaching 1 MA can be achieved. Scalings of beam properties with respect to accelerator and plasma parameters are explored with limitations on achievable final beam duration and peak current evaluated. Optimal beam and plasma conditions are investigated for different applications, with the goal of experimentally demonstrating this technique at existing accelerator facilities. Insights gained from this study will help design the next-generation of high-brightness beams for new frontiers in scientific research.

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Phys. Rev. Accel. Beams 29, 052802– Published 29 May, 2026
  • Received 14 October 2025
  • Accepted 19 March 2026
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