The results of numerical simulation of spontaneous
magnetic field generation and the influence of this field
on laser produced plasma jet expansion in vacuum and low
density gas are presented. The numerical simulation has
been carried out using 2D MHD code for the case of an Al
plate of 5 μm thickness irradiated by an Nd laser.
The laser pulse duration was 0.5 ns at half-width, laser
irradiation intensity was up to 1013 W/cm2
and laser focal spot diameter was about 100 μm. According
to the received results, the magnetic field amplitude achieves
the value of 150 kGs. This fact has no considerable influence
on the temperature maximum in laser produced plasma, but
significantly affects the process of the energy transport
from plasma jet to low density gas. Shock wave generated
magnetic field with reversal profile can be achieved in
the case of plasma propagating into background gas.