Experimental exhibition of strongly correlated plasma effects. Asymmetrical line wings and possible transient molecule features

We report on the analysis of spatially resolved X-ray emission from the densest part of plasmas created by laser irradiation of plane targets. Because of the high electron densities and low temperatures involved, the plasmas are strongly correlated and not very emissive. We present a new experimental technique providing an extensive enhancement of the emission profiles and allowing the access to ultradense plasma regimes hitherto unobtainable. The broadening of F L_β and Al L_β lines is discussed with respect to asymmetries and the possible formation of transient molecules. An identification of the satellites exhibited is proposed and the presence of the ionic-molecule F⁸⁺-F⁹⁺ in highly correlated fluorine plasmas is suggested.