Can we produce helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion

In summary, high power Peta Watt lasers are available for producing helium 3 through deuterium-proton fusion. FYI, there are experiments showing a reaction rate of 10^9 in the p-b11 reaction, but the maximum theoretical reaction rate for the easier p-d reaction is still unknown. Referring to a 10-15 kj per shot 70um diameter laser, it is possible that this table could help in achieving a higher reaction rate. However, at the moment, it is not possible to create a power plant using this method, as it is currently not even feasible with the much easier DT reaction. These lasers have a high peak power and energy per shot, but they require a few hours per shot and only
  • #1
qas
2
0
High power laser Peta Watt are available, will it enable to produce helium 3 from deuterium-proton fusion?

FYI, there many experiments show 10^9 reaction rate in p-b11 reaction.

But we can get better rate? What is the maximum theoretical reaction rate for this easier p-d reaction?

Ref. 10-15 kj per shot 70um diameter laser.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Can this table help?
 

Attachments

  • Screenshot_2018-06-15-20-38-53-345_com.google.android.apps.docs.jpg
    Screenshot_2018-06-15-20-38-53-345_com.google.android.apps.docs.jpg
    17.4 KB · Views: 594
  • #3
If we could, we could make a power plant with it. At the moment that doesn't even work with the much easier DT reaction.

These lasers have a high peak power and a high energy per shot, but they need a few hours per shot. The amount of material fissioned per shot is tiny and the rate of these shots is tiny as well.
 
  • Like
Likes qas

FAQ: Can we produce helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion

What is helium 3 and why is it important?

Helium 3 is a rare isotope of helium that contains one less neutron than the more common helium 4. It is important because it has potential uses in nuclear fusion reactions and as a fuel for future space exploration missions.

Can we produce helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion?

Yes, it is possible to produce helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion. When protons (hydrogen nuclei) and deuterium (hydrogen nuclei with an extra neutron) undergo fusion, they can produce helium 3 as one of the byproducts.

How is helium 3 produced in proton-deuterium fusion?

In proton-deuterium fusion, protons and deuterium nuclei are brought close enough together that they overcome their electrostatic repulsion and fuse together. This fusion reaction releases energy and produces helium 3 as one of the products.

Is producing helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion a viable energy source?

While producing helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion is possible, it is not currently a viable energy source. The technology to sustain and control fusion reactions at a large scale is still in development and it is not yet cost-effective to produce helium 3 in this way.

Are there any challenges in producing helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion?

Yes, there are several challenges in producing helium 3 from proton-deuterium fusion. One major challenge is the high temperatures and pressures required for fusion to occur, which requires advanced technology and materials. Another challenge is the cost involved in building and maintaining a fusion reactor for large-scale production of helium 3.

Similar threads

I Why not deuterium-proton fusion?
Replies
13
Views
5K
B So, is the polywell a promising concept for achieving aneutronic fusion?
Replies
4
Views
2K
I Why is Deuterium fusion so much easier than Hydrogen fusion?
Replies
4
Views
3K
Can We Create Elements Higher Than Helium in a Terrestrial Fusion Reactor?
Replies
16
Views
4K
I 7Li(p,e+e−)8Be direct proton-capture reaction X17
Replies
7
Views
2K
B Exploring Nuclear Fusion: IEC Fusion Reactor Construction and Operation
Replies
19
Views
4K
Helium 3 breeding in fusion reactors
Replies
3
Views
3K
Fusion aerospace propulsion systems for the near future
Replies
23
Views
4K
Fusion Reaction of Hydrogen and Deuterium into Helium
Replies
1
Views
7K
Lawson Parameter for Sustained Deuterium-Deuterium Fusion
Replies
1
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top