Professor Zhao Yongtao's research team from the School of Physics of Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU) obtained high-precision experimental data on the charge evolution of MeV-scale broad energy spectrum carbon ions in dense plasma with well-defined beam target parameters. 

It is the first experimental demonstration of the influence mechanism of target density effects on the ion charge exchange process in the plasma.

As a collaborative effort with the Laser Fusion Research Center of the Chinese Academy of Engineering Physics, and the Institute of Modern Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the paper titled Target Density Effects on Charge Transfer of Laser-Accelerated Carbon Ions in Dense Plasma, was published online in Physical Review Letters on Feb 27.

(a) Schematic diagram of the experimental setup (b) Sequence of beam-target action (c) Density effect versus plasma-free electron density

This study was conducted using large-scale scientific facilities. Such facilities provide a crucial platform for advancing forefront and foundational research, and serve as a driving force for scientific innovation and the development of a strong technological nation. They will play a significant role in achieving original breakthroughs and securing a competitive edge in the scientific and technological landscape.