Deuterium Fusion Using Inertial Electrostatic Confinement

A Science Fair Project By Michael Kovalchick

Dallastown Area High School

What is IEC Fusion?

• Inertial Electrostatic Fusion (IEC) uses a high voltage well to ionize a fusion fuel gas and then cause collision of the ions to induce fusion.

• Super hot temperatures over 100 million Kelvin are required.

Why Study IEC Fusion?

• In spite of a great deal of research emphasis on magnetic confinement fusion, Inertial Electrostatic Confinement (IEC) Fusion is the only nuclear fusion method that produces sustained reactions.

• IEC fusion can be performed on a small scale.

The goal of the project was to build an actualoperating nuclear fusion reactor.

What was needed?

• A vacuum chamber capable of tolerating a harsh plasma environment (KitchenAid mixing bowl)

• Pumps needed to achieve a high vacuum• A high voltage power supply• Deuterium gas• Neutron detection equipment• Safety equipment• Experienced adult oversight• Some space in the basement

The Reactor

The Results

Test run using Helium Gas

Artificial star of deuterium plasma. Fusion achieved!

When deuterium plasma was confined, neutrons were detected outside the chamber.

Conclusion

• The project was successful at building a tabletop nuclear fusion reactor

• The reactor is useful for plasma and neutron studies

• Personal experience was gained in a variety of science and engineering areas.