A Novel Apparatus to Investigate the Possibility of Plasma-Assisted Cold Fusion

Cold fusion of deuterium in a transition metal may have been demonstrated recently. These experiments use electrochemical hydrolysis of heavy water to provide the fuel source and conditions for fusion. An alternate approach with some advantages over electrolysis is described. A dc plasma discharge is made in a deuterium gas with a negative electrode made of palladium. Independent pressure, temperature, and current control are also possible in this method. Detection of reactions is achieved by a charged-particle detector placed close to the back side of the cathode. To date, no fusion events have been seen. However, only a small portion of the available parameter space has been investigated.