Is Nuclear Isomer Research Still Viable for Harnessing Energy?

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SUMMARY

Nuclear isomer research remains a viable field, particularly with the recent accurate measurement of the excitation state of the metastable nuclear isomer Thorium-229. This advancement suggests potential for triggering its transition back to the ground state, which could lead to the development of nuclear batteries. Despite past controversies surrounding claims of induced gamma-ray emissions from Hafnium-178, ongoing research indicates that the exploration of metastable isomers continues, with academic institutions actively investigating these phenomena.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear physics principles, particularly isomerism.
  • Familiarity with gamma-ray emission and detection techniques.
  • Knowledge of Thorium-229 and its properties.
  • Basic grasp of nuclear energy concepts and applications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the latest findings on Thorium-229 and its potential applications in energy generation.
  • Investigate current methodologies for inducing gamma-ray emissions from metastable isomers.
  • Explore advancements in nuclear battery technology and its feasibility.
  • Review historical claims and investigations surrounding Hafnium-178 to understand past challenges in the field.
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in nuclear physics, energy scientists, and students interested in advanced energy solutions will benefit from this discussion on the viability of nuclear isomer research.

sanman
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This article's nearly a year old, and yet it contains a relatively recent piece of progress, which I've only just noticed:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/04/070406140937.htm

The excitation state of the metastable nuclear isomer of Thorium-229 relative to ground has been accurately measured. If further research can trigger its transition back to ground, then it's hoped that this could lead to the nuclear battery.

I'm sure we all remember that controversial announcement some years ago, by some guy claiming to have induced gamma-ray emission from the metastable isomer Hafnium-178, using an old dental x-ray machine. One of the national labs (Livermore? Los Alamos?) investigated and debunked the claim as false. So that seemed to have totally put prospects of harnessing isomers out in the cold.

But this recent announcement that I posted above seems to indicate that research is still ongoing. I'd like to then know where the state of nuclear isomer research is, and whether it's considered to still have any promising prospects.

Is anybody continuing with any research to try and achieve induced gamma emission from any metastable isomer?
 
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A teacher at my old university is researching about this. too bad I am at another university, otherwise I could have asked him ;)