Enhanced generation of attosecond electron beams via laser-irradiated thin film targets

Attosecond electron beams can be generated from laser-irradiated solid targets, but controlling their charge and energy remains challenging. This paper proposes a method to enhance electron emission from thin-film targets using intense laser pulses. Theoretical and numerical analyses reveal that, in addition to electrons emitted from the target’s front surface, many are reflected and further accelerated by the dynamically growing rear sheath field. Scaling laws describe the dependence of emission on laser pulse duration, target thickness, and intensity. This method enables the production of attosecond electron beams with higher energy and charge, advancing ultrafast electron dynamics and high-energy-density physics.