Francesco Gatti
PhD thesis title: Development of an innovative laser-driven particle source for industrial and societal applications
Academic Tutor: Andrea Pola
Academic Supervisor: Matteo Passoni
Industrial Supervisor: Dario Rastelli (Raylab s.r.l.)
PhD cycle: 37° (see all student profiles of the same cycle > LINK)
BSc: Materials Engineering and Nanotechnology, Politecnico di Milano
MSc: Nuclear Engineering, Politecnico di Milano
Thesis abstract
My research project is in the field of laser-driven particle sources. Laser pulses interacting with matter can accelerate particles, such as protons, that could be used for several applications, like materials characterization and medical isotopes production. My work focuses on two relevant aspects. The first is the production of interaction targets exploiting thin film techniques. Targets proved to be of fundamental importance in controlling the properties of the accelerated particles (e.g., maximum energy, number). The other and central one is the development of a proton diagnostic able to measure their spectra with absolute calibration.
Personal interest in my research theme
This topic allows me to put together the different interests matured during my previous studies: materials engineering, nuclear technologies and physics. I am able to do both experimental lab work and instrument design, with the possibility of taking part in experimental campaigns at big laser facilities and conventional accelerators. In addition, my PhD is conducted in collaboration with a company, and this allows me to better understand the differences between academia and industry, identifying their strengths and possible synergies. All these reasons make this project really fascinating.
