Multiple DD fusion events at interelectrode media of nanosecond vacuum discharge

Abstract

We create and operate with a random interelectrode media of high power density using the low energy nanosecond vacuum discharges. The subjects of our study are hard x-ray emission efficiency, generation of energetic ions (~1 MeV) and neutrons and the trapping and release of fast ions and/or x-rays from interelectrode complex ensembles of cold micro grains with some micro plasmas. The value of the neutron yield from DD microfusion in the interelectrode space is variable and amounts to ~105–107/4π per shot under ≈1 J of total energy stored to create all discharge processes. In a limiting case of total trapping of fast deuterium ions by the dense 'dusty cloud' of clusters under partial hard x-ray diffusion and multiple fusion events inside, the pulsating neutron yield has maximum values (table-top complex plasma 'microreactor'). The role of virtual cathode formation and electrostatic mechanism of ions acceleration at the regime of unstable current carrying are discussed briefly.