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Don't miss this week's Nature!
Or, if you don't have access, read here:
http://physicsweb.org/articles/news/9/4/15/1
Zz.
Or, if you don't have access, read here:
http://physicsweb.org/articles/news/9/4/15/1
Zz.
Table-top Fusion: Read Here for Latest Nature
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In summary, UCLA researchers have created fusion reactions in a pyroelectric material using a low-potential accelerating potential. This material is pryoelectric, which means that positive and negative charges build up on opposite faces of the crystal when it is heated. Due to the low potential, these reactions are unlikely to produce energy, but they could find uses in spacecraft thrusters, medical treatments, and scanners that search for bombs.
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Astronuc
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The article mispels "pyroelectric" as "pryoelectric". 
It does seem they obtained fusion reactions, although at a very low level.
What is strange is the claim of using a pyroelectric material at room temperature, when the article also states "This material is pryoelectric, which means that positive and negative charges build up on opposite faces of the crystal when it is heated." So did they heat it or not? If they heated it, it's not exactly room temperature.
UCLA's site - http://rodan.physics.ucla.edu/pyrofusion/
It does seem they obtained fusion reactions, although at a very low level.
What is strange is the claim of using a pyroelectric material at room temperature, when the article also states "This material is pryoelectric, which means that positive and negative charges build up on opposite faces of the crystal when it is heated." So did they heat it or not? If they heated it, it's not exactly room temperature.
UCLA's site - http://rodan.physics.ucla.edu/pyrofusion/
- #3
Gonzolo
Room temperature relative to what is usually thought of when one hears "fusion". The heat flow seems to be incident from one side only.
- #4
MR. P
why? why? why?
Wow! more neutrons! Ionizing one's, too. What Neandertal 'modern' means of energy transformation will be utilized to make 'electricity?'. or What? another terrorist device.
What happens to the immediate surroundings when these neutrons 'pollute' change deleteriously everything close by., 'researchers' inclusive.
perhaps a better pursuit would be to maybe ask "how many BTU's are contained in water vapor in the Atmosphere assuming that the atmosphere is 100 mi thick and all other elements within the atmosphere would extend only 1500 feet above the surface?"
refugee from the nuclear industry...
Wow! more neutrons! Ionizing one's, too. What Neandertal 'modern' means of energy transformation will be utilized to make 'electricity?'. or What? another terrorist device.
What happens to the immediate surroundings when these neutrons 'pollute' change deleteriously everything close by., 'researchers' inclusive.
perhaps a better pursuit would be to maybe ask "how many BTU's are contained in water vapor in the Atmosphere assuming that the atmosphere is 100 mi thick and all other elements within the atmosphere would extend only 1500 feet above the surface?"
refugee from the nuclear industry...
- #5
Astronuc
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There is a writeup in the NY Times (Aarrggghhh!).
Potential uses (in answer to Why? Why? Why?):
Also, about have the reactions should produce T+p. Hmmm.
From the journalist:
I posted a copy of the article with schematic at E-S: http://www.everything-science.com/components/com_smf/index.php?topic=6060.msg55160#msg55160
The cell uses an accelerating potential of about 1 kV, hence the low yield. The yield could be boosted using a tritiated target (with concommitant radiological issues) and a higher potential. However, the low potential means low energy input.
Potential uses (in answer to Why? Why? Why?):
And inexpesive neutron source.
Also, about have the reactions should produce T+p. Hmmm.
From the journalist:
Well, not exactly. Yes the sun (and stars in general) use fusion to produce energy, but the sun is primarily p+p fusion with about 2% from the CNO cycle.
I posted a copy of the article with schematic at E-S: http://www.everything-science.com/components/com_smf/index.php?topic=6060.msg55160#msg55160
The cell uses an accelerating potential of about 1 kV, hence the low yield. The yield could be boosted using a tritiated target (with concommitant radiological issues) and a higher potential. However, the low potential means low energy input.
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- #6
FAQ: Table-top Fusion: Read Here for Latest Nature
What is table-top fusion?
Table-top fusion is a type of fusion reaction that occurs on a small scale, typically in a laboratory setting. It involves the fusion of atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process.
How is table-top fusion different from traditional fusion?
Traditional fusion reactions, such as those that occur in the sun, require extremely high temperatures and pressures to initiate the fusion process. Table-top fusion, on the other hand, uses special techniques and materials to achieve fusion at much lower temperatures and pressures.
What are the potential applications of table-top fusion?
Table-top fusion has the potential to provide a source of clean, abundant energy. It could also be used for medical imaging and cancer treatment, as well as in the production of radioisotopes for various applications.
What are some challenges associated with table-top fusion?
One of the main challenges of table-top fusion is achieving a sustainable and controlled fusion reaction. This requires precise control of the materials and conditions involved, as well as addressing issues such as energy loss and radiation hazards.
What are some recent developments in table-top fusion research?
Recent advancements in laser technology and materials science have allowed for the creation of more efficient and stable fusion reactions on a small scale. Additionally, researchers are exploring new techniques, such as magnetic confinement, to overcome challenges in achieving sustained fusion reactions.