What evidence supports the possibility of nuclear fusion in palladium cathodes?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the controversial topic of nuclear fusion in palladium cathodes, particularly referencing the 1989 cold fusion experiment by Pons and Fleischman. Participants argue that while some energy release may occur, the expected signatures of nuclear fusion, such as the detection of 14.1 MeV neutrons, are absent, leading to the conclusion that true fusion is not happening. The discussion also highlights ongoing research, including sonofusion, but maintains that these phenomena do not meet the criteria for nuclear fusion as traditionally defined.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cold fusion principles and historical context
  • Knowledge of nuclear reactions, specifically D-T and D-D fusion
  • Familiarity with experimental detection methods for nuclear emissions
  • Basic concepts of solid-state physics, particularly regarding metal hydrides
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the historical context and scientific critiques of the Pons and Fleischman experiment
  • Explore the mechanisms and implications of sonofusion and its experimental results
  • Investigate the role of ultra-low momentum neutrons in metallic hydrides as proposed by Widom and Larsen
  • Examine the differences between chemical reactions and nuclear reactions, particularly in energy yield
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in nuclear physics, physicists interested in alternative energy sources, and anyone studying the controversies surrounding cold fusion and related phenomena.

  • #31
Ben Powell said:
Abstract: Almost two decades ago, Fleischmann and Pons
reported excess enthalpy generation in the negatively
polarized Pd/D-D2O system, which they attributed to
nuclear reactions. In the months and years that followed,
other manifestations of nuclear activities in this system
were observed, viz. tritium and helium production and
transmutation of elements.
Their factually incorrect statements about the history of the subject raise a red flag re their credibility. As we don't have access to the actual papers you have cited here, there is little that we can say about them - which is why you have been met with so much silence. But be advised that due to the history of fraud surrounding this topic, we are highly skeptical of the subject matter and keep a very short leash on such discussions. This leash includes a constraint against speculation and posing of unverified, unpublished theories as stated in our TOS (as in your last post).
 

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