The physics basis for an electron-beam-based Compton scattering x-ray source is investigated for single-shot experiments at the major high-energy-density facilities, such as the Omega Laser Facility, National Ignition Facility, and $Z$ pulsed power facility. A source of monoenergetic ($\delta \epsilon /\epsilon <5\%$) 10- to 50-keV x rays can be produced by scattering of a short-pulse optical laser by a 23- to 53-MeV electron beam and collimating the scattered photons. The number and spectrum of scattered photons are calculated as a function of electron packet charge, electron and laser pulse duration, laser intensity, and collision geometry. A source delivering greater than ${10}^{10}$ photons in a 1-mm-radius spot and 100-ps time resolution is plausible with the available electron gun and laser technology. Applications of this source for x-ray diffraction, x-ray imaging, x-ray absorption fine structure, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy in high-energy-density physics experiments are described, demonstrating significant advancements compared to the present state of the art.

• Received 10 February 2023
• Revised 27 October 2023
• Accepted 20 February 2024

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevAccelBeams.27.034701

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Published by the American Physical Society