MPB selected by INFN Catania for EMP shielding measurements at the I-LUCE Facility

The National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) in Catania has selected MPB to conduct shielding efficiency measurements within the frequency range of 10 kHz to 6 GHz. These measurements are essential for assessing the potential impact of the Electromagnetic Pulse generated by laser-target interaction within the future I-LUCE facility at the Southern National Laboratories (LNS-INFN).

An EMP is a high-intensity electromagnetic pulse that can be produced by nuclear explosions, solar events, or, as in the case of I-LUCE, by the interaction between an ultra-high-power laser and a target. This phenomenon can have a significant impact on surrounding electronic equipment and systems, potentially causing interference or permanent damage. For this reason, shielding measurements are crucial to evaluating the effectiveness of EMP protection and preventing possible disruptions in adjacent rooms of the facility.

In this context, the I-LUCE (INFN Laser indUCEd radiations facility), is being developed as a cutting-edge infrastructure that will redefine particle acceleration and the production of novel radiation at INFN-LNS. Its technological core will feature high-power laser systems (up to 1 PW) with ultra-short pulses (down to 23 fs), capable of interacting with solid, liquid, or gaseous materials to generate radiation with innovative characteristics of great scientific interest.

Beyond its scientific significance, I-LUCE will stand out as the first Italian facility open to external users, offering researchers the opportunity to conduct experiments with laser-driven radiation and studies in the Warm Dense Matter (WDM) regime. The combination of high power and operational flexibility will make this infrastructure a strategic resource for multiple research fields.

From a technical perspective, I-LUCE will feature laser pulses with variable frequencies between 1 Hz and 10 Hz, pulse durations ranging from 25 fs to 20 ps, and power levels between 50 TW and 350 TW. These capabilities will make it the most powerful and versatile laser system currently available in Italy, with application potential spanning from fundamental physics to cutting-edge technological advancements.

To ensure the proper functioning of this infrastructure and the safety of surrounding equipment, attenuation measurements of the electromagnetic field (EMF) have been carried out, assessing the magnetic component up to 300 MHz and the electric component up to 6 GHz. . Analyzing these data allows for the evaluation of shielding effectiveness and the minimization of possible interference or risks related to EMF propagation.

EMP generation in high-intensity laser environments presents a significant challenge for protecting sensitive electronic systems. The collaboration between INFN and MPB enables the development of targeted strategies to mitigate EMP effects and ensure a safe operational environment within I-LUCE.