Fusion for Students: Cheapest Neutron & X-Ray Detectors, Vacuum Pumps, Deuterium

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the practical aspects of acquiring equipment for nuclear fusion experiments, specifically focusing on neutron and X-ray detectors, vacuum pumps, and deuterium. Participants explore the affordability and availability of these items for students, as well as alternative methods to detect fusion reactions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the cheapest neutron and X-ray detectors available for students.
  • Another participant specifies a need for a vacuum of 10^{-3} torrs and asks about purchasing deuterium in lump form for ease of handling.
  • Several participants express curiosity about the motivations behind acquiring these materials, with one mentioning the possibility of building a fusor, which is a type of nuclear fusion reactor.
  • A suggestion is made to seek supervision from institutional staff for a group project involving an inertial electrostatic confinement (IEC) nuclear fusion reactor, along with a note about potential funding.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the credibility of certain online resources related to fusors and their portrayal of IEC fusion compared to other fusion methods.
  • One participant expresses enthusiasm for the educational value and enjoyment of building a fusor project.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views regarding the feasibility and credibility of building a fusor, as well as the motivations for acquiring fusion-related materials. No consensus is reached on the best sources for detectors or pumps, and concerns about the reliability of certain resources remain contested.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not established clear definitions or parameters for what constitutes "cheap" in the context of detectors and pumps, nor have they resolved the specifics of the noise levels associated with vacuum pumps. The discussion also lacks detailed information on the availability and pricing of deuterium.

Urvabara
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What is the cheapest possible neutron detector? Are there any cheap detectors (for students)?

What is the cheapest possible X-ray detector?

What is the cheapest possible vacuum pump? How noisy are they? I mean: Does the pumping noise disturb the wall neighbours?

Are there any other ways to tell that the nuclear FUSION reaction has happened except the neutron gain?

How much does deuterium cost? Is it the only possible fusionable matter in the market a student can buy?
 
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I need a vacuum of 10^{-3} torrs.

PS. Where can I buy deuterium lump (Pycnodeuterium)? I think it would be more easier to handle than deuterium gas.
 
Out of curiosity may I ask you; why do you want to buy the stuff??
 
Nomy-the wanderer said:
Out of curiosity may I ask you; why do you want to buy the stuff??

Do you know Fusor? It's possible to build one, even high school kids have.
 
Maybe you should ask a member of staff at your institution to supervise a group intending to build a inertial electrostatic confinement (IEC) nuclear fusion reactor, otherwise known as a "fusor". You might get a little funding.

I had a look at fusor.net and don't really like the cut of their jib - it sounds like their trying to sell IEC fusion as the true product (a bit like those bogus adverts on the telly for rubbish kitchen appliances with not one, two, but three free gifts; plus a set of steak knives ;-) ). And also they seem to be trying to undermine the efforts of the funded science community who are endeavouring to supply nuclear fusion as civilian power source, as if they have a chip on their shoulder about magnetic confinement being chosen over IEC designs.

A fusor project would be worthwhile, I think. You'd learn a lot and have a lot of fun putting it together. Good luck!
 

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