Particle-in-cell simulations of plasma wakefield formation in microwave waveguides

Abstract

The acceleration of charged particles is fundamental not only for experimental studies in particle physics but also for applications in fields such as semiconductor manufacturing and medical therapies. However, conventional accelerators face limitations due to their large size, driven by low acceleration gradients. Plasma-based accelerators have emerged as a promising alternative, offering ultrahigh acceleration gradients, though their implementation is often limited by the need for high-intensity, femtosecond laser systems and sophisticated diagnostics. As a more accessible alternative, the use of microwave pulses to excite plasma wakefields in waveguides filled with low-density plasma has gained attention. In this study, we perform three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations to investigate the formation and structure of electrostatic wakefields driven by short microwave pulses in rectangular plasma waveguides. The results establish a theoretical basis for evaluating the feasibility and potential applications of microwave-driven plasma acceleration schemes.