A collaboration
of researchers from the University of Gothenburg and the University of Iceland have studied
a new type of nuclear fusion process
that’s quite different from the normal process. Nuclear fusion is a process
where atoms melt together and release energy. By combining smaller atoms with
larger ones, energy can be released. The nuclear fusion studied by the
researchers produces almost no neutrons. Instead, fast
and heavy electrons are
created since the reaction’s based in heavy hydrogen.
“This is a considerable advantage compared to other nuclear
fusion processes, which are under development at other research facilities,
since the neutrons produced by such processes can cause dangerous flash
burns," says Leif Holmlid, a retired Professor at the University of
Gothenburg. This new fusion process can occur in very small fusion
reactors fueled by heavy hydrogen. It’s been shown that this process produces
much more energy than is needed to start. Heavy hydrogen can be found all
around us in ordinary water. Instead of handling the large, radioactive
hydrogen used to power large reactors, this process could eliminate dangers
involved in the old process.
“A considerable advantage of the fast heavy electrons
produced by the new process is that these are charged and can, therefore,
produce electrical energy instantly. The energy in the neutrons which
accumulate in large quantities in other types of nuclear fusion is difficult to
handle because the neutrons are not charged. These neutrons are high-energy and
very damaging to living organisms, whereas the fast, heavy electrons are
considerably less dangerous,” Holmlid said. Smaller and simpler
reactors can be built in order to harness this energy and make it viable for
small power stations. The fast, heavy electrons decay very quickly, allowing
for the production of quick energy.
